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To the Readers of The Progress: 

THIS SOUVENIR EDITION OF THE PROGRESS has been produced under many 
difficulties. It was begun with the hope that it would conservatively and truly set 
forth the history and resources of Nokorais and vicinity and the growth, development and 
present condition of our beautiful and prosperous city, all in a permanent form for preser- 
vation. The faces of the men who have made and are making the material and political 
history of Nokomis are fast passing from our view. The grim reaper has been unusually 
busy with his harvest during the past few years. For these reasons we have given maga- 
zine form and substantial binding to the Souvenir. Let every citizen preserve a copy. In 
years to come it will be of priceless value. We have endeavored to make this work 
worthy of the sulaject. 

We here take this opportunity to express our thanks to our many friends, who have 
so generously assisted us in making this work a success. 

Major D. B Casteel has bv his own efforts inaugurated and made successful this 
work. He did all the soliciting and compiled and wrote all the matter. He has prepared 
the material for many special newspaper and magazine issues, and his work bears the 
impress of studious care. Of necessity some typographical errors appear, it seems almost 
impossible to keep such a work free from them. The cover design and the mechanical 
work were done by and under the supervision of the publisher, with the Progress Printing 
Plant, and he feels justly proud of the work, realizing that at its inception it seemed al- 
most impossible to produce this work with the limited amount of facilities to be found in 
a small country print shop. The work was printed on an 8x12 Challenge Gordan, one page 
at an impression, and it to<ik about 160,000 impression and 2.000 pounds of paper to pro- 
duce this beautiful work We have been delayed continuously by the engraver and the 
work is considerable later than we hoped to make. Ttiere were other unavoidable de- 
lays that retarded the work, such as getting out the weekly paper, keeping up the job 
work, etc. We trust that the good people will appreciate the Souvenir. 

Respectfully, 

W. P. HAGTHROP, 

Publisher. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS 



SUPPLEMENTAL EDITION- 



Vol. IX. 



NOKOMTS, ILLINOIS, MAY 22, 1903. 



No. 8 



NOKOMIS AND VICINITY. 

HISTORICAL AND DESCRIPTIVE. 




HIUKK HISTORY of the early events 
that transpired near or within the 
limits of what is now iMontgouier.y 
( 'onnty, may not be without interest 
to our rea<lers, so we refer to them. 
More tlian a century before the I'il- 
Sriin Fathers lan(le<l on Plymoutii 
Rock, tlie white man cast his eyes 
over the broad expanse of these fertile 
plains. And here, near where the 
I ^^i^Wiy pure and liinijid waters of the liijj 

il-i:.-^.-;-. -,■ ',4#l^^»|| River rolled, lie pitched his tent. For 
liow many ages before this thfe red man had liere " wooed liis • 
dusky maid " and in peace hunted tlie deer and other {Tame 
we know not. [t is known, however, that this was a point 
where the red man had, for many generations gatliered lor 
the council and for the dance, and here were his proljtic 
liuntinof o-rounds. Advancement was slow, partially owins: 
to the primitiveage in which we then lived, and partly owinu; 
to Ihe slow emigration to tlie west. iSo it was near the mi<l- 
dle of llie liJth century ere the counlrv began to take on the 
appearance of civilization. It was not unfil 1846 that .Mont- 
gomery County became identilied with the older parts of Ibe 
State. 

For many years Nokomis lay dormant, but during the 
past decade the population has visibly increased, even to the 
superficial views The building of liouses is steadily pro- 
gressing, new industries are lieing added, and the city is not 
falling behind in any of those items which go to make an 
aclive and steady prosperity. 

■jMijOKOMIS IS SITl'ATKD on the southeastern terminus 
'H ' of "" extensive plateau of land wiiich lies in an almost 
unbroken surface for several miles, in a west and northwest- 
ern direction, and consists of a very rich black soil, while the 
surface of the territory on the east and south is inclined to be 
hilly and broken. However, it is very productive in seasons 
wlien tlie weatheris favorable. 

^^^^ 

JpHftHIS TOWNSHir was one of the last in Montgomery 
4l tjounly to be settled. Sixty years ago it was practically 
unknown to civilization, there being only one or two white 
families within its borders. We are told that even fifty years 
ago but very few families resided in tiie tov.nsbip; the vast 
prairie at that liuie being decorateil with a foliage ot liigli 
grass anil beautiful flowers, with immense herds of w ild ani- 
mals. The first settler ot Nokomis township was Hugh 
Higlitower, who settled on seclion L'.3, in 1846. Some eight 
years later a new settlement vva.? opened in the northern part 
of the township b.v R. N. I-ee, .lohn Wetmore, William lion- 
ton, Abraiii Vanhooser, William Lee and Andrew Coiner. 



The Hist school is said to have been taught by Henry 
Lower, at his own private residence. In the year 18.51. The 
fiist school house was built in 1853. on section 127, near the 
present residence of .lacob Mailer. 

The first sermon was preached in Xokoniis township by 
Rev. J. L. (^rane, a Methodist Kpiscopal minister. The lirst 
cluirch was a Methodist society, which was organized liy 
Preston Wood ni 1852. .Mr. Wood came from Knglaud to 
New York City in which latter place he was enipluyeii a? 
editor of a newspaper for six months, Coming to Illinois at 
the expiration of that time. He was presidin;; elder of the 
.laeksonville dislrict for a numlier of years, and at last ac- 
counts was stiil living. 

fjHK FIRST MARRIAGF, recorded in this township 
was that of J. \V. Hancock and .Miss .Margaret Meiitt, 
ill 18i3; the second one being Mr. Horar and .Miss .Margaret 
Higlitower, also in 18.53. 

The railroad at I bis place now known as the ( 'levelaiid, 
Cincinnati, Chicago and .-^t l.oiijs was t ben the A Iton und 
Terre Haute railroad. The tii.--t train was troiii .Mtoii lo 
Hillsboro, .luly 4, 18-55, and the road w.-is completed to Terre 
Haute, .lanuary 8, 1856. A station beiiiy at once established 
alibis place, whii:b was the foundation, and lieginiiing of 
Nokomis as a vilhiire, and now one of the mosi boantifnl small 
cities of southern Illinois. It was surveyed and platted bv 
W (;. Huggins of I5uiiker Hill, and Captain Simeon Ryiler of 
Alton, in tiie fall of 1856. 

The first mercantile establishment w'as owned by Oliver 
Houtwell in the same year. The first blacksmiih shop was 
opened by A. Swords of .Audubon in 1857; he also conducted 
a wayside inn, where the traveling public w.ts entertained. 
The first hotel was built liy Mr. Hart in 1.S.59, wlio was also a 
dealer ill lumber. Dr. Welch, of .■\udubon put out tlie first 
jdiysician's sign in 1857. 

HF: first I'OsrOFFiCK was established in 18.56. The 
liistorv before us stales lliat Ibe village was at this 
lime known as Fillinore, bul ihe writer cannot vuuch for this, 
as he can find no old settler who has any recollection of Ihis 
fact, although he has interviewed numerous pioneers, some 
of whom claim to have settled in or near the present location 
of Nokomis iiut do not remember of ils having been called 
Fillmore 

To one .Mrs. .Vinisa Karry of .Alton, Illinois, was assigned 
Ihe honor of naming this city. Meing an admirer of Longfel- 
low's poeini, Ibe song of Hiawatha, in which the old Indian 
sfjiiaw, .Nokomis. is so frequenlly menlinncd, being one of lier 
favorites, she at once decided to name the place Nokomis. 

Anotlier story is told in regard lo Ihe naming of this city: 
.\ traveler who had stopped at a shanty near the sfalion. 



<< A 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




STATE STREET, LOOKING EAST. 



Photo by Whiltlcsey. 



askeii the landlady for a comb, with which to dress his hair, 
hut was assured that no such article was kept in tlie house. 
Hence he called the place No-Uoni-ns. 

A larse perceotot Xokouiis' pioneer settlers and husiness 
men came from .Mton and other parts of Madison county; 
also most of the citizens of the once prosperous ami historical 
villajre of Audubon, which was located only six miles east of 
here, came to Xokomis after the postotflce was established. 

The first postmaster of this place was Oliver Boutwell. 
In 18.58 H. K. Rood took possession of the otHco,atid in 1861 he 
was followed by W. F. Mulkey, but in the course of a year it 
again fell into the hands of Mr. Rood, who serveil miti! IfiCA, 
when it pas.s»id to Thomas Judson. I). 1^. Brophy came into 
possession of the office in 1865 and held it for a period of 
twenty-one years, when he was succeeded by M. K. Touhy, 
who was a|)pointed under the first Cleveland administration. 
Mr. Touhy was succeeded by Robert Gelly, who successfully 
discharged the duties of the office for several years, and in 
18!)i;, .lohn A. Mouaghan was appointed. Following him 
came Charles K. Best, who still holds the position, at the 
present writing. 

IN 1866 THK VILLAGE wasincorporate<! under the general 
incorporation act, and a board of trustees cliosen, but this 
incorporation wan found to he deficieid and in the winter of 
1867, a few of tlie citizens met ami appointed a comniittee to 
draw up a special charter, to be adopted by the legislature, 
then in session. This charter was granted Match ilth, 1867 ; 
the first board of trustees was elecited, with the f'ol- 
'owing members: C. H. Schaper was chosen president of the 
board; A. H. Draper was elected clerk; N. M. Belnap. treas- 
urer; K. K. Brightmau, constable and street commissioner; 



B. \V. Henderson, assessor. .\ I tliistime the city liad a pop- 
ulation of atioiil seven hundred people, and willi three 
churche'^, eight or fen stores and such industiies as are 
usually foiinil in a place of its size. 

On March 27, 186!), the charier was amemled by a special 
act of the legislature. 

The boundaries of the city are as follows : Beginning at 
a point one-half mile south of the center of the public s<4uare, 
the square being block 39, thence east one-half mile, thence 
north one mile, thence west one mile, thence south one mile, 
thence east one-half mile, to place of beginning. 

ijg^N FEBBU.\RY 6th, 1893, the (,'ify of Nokomis organized 
^^ under the General Law of the State. 

M^HE FIRST TELEGIIAI'H OFFICE was established 
il Feb. i, 1863, N. M. Belnap as operator, which position 
he continuously held until his death in October, 1895. 

Mason Jewitt and .lohn \V. Wetmore operated the first 
mill in 18.58. The mill was burned in 1860. 

'I'he first newspaper publisheil in this city was the Noko- 
mis .\dviser, issued once a month by Draper and Hemlersou, 
tile first number of which appeared February 1, 1867. 

The Free I'ress, a Democratic paper, was established in 
.luly 1870, Mr. I<",. M. llull)ert as editor. Some years later the 
(iazette was established and after running some eight years 
was purchased by Mr. Hulbert, who consolidated the two 
under the name of the Free Press-Gazette, and then the 
whole was launched on the sea of independent politics, and 



THE NOKO.MIS PI{()c;R108S SOUVENJK SLM'l'LEMKXT. 



X 



as such has beoii oondiicleil. In 1S80 .Mr. Hiillieit estahlislieil 
a Geiinaii pa|n-r, the " Deulscli .\meiikaiier," at llie same 
tiiin' a.ssi)ciatiii<; liiniself with the present senior partner, 
.losepli \V. Willi, ()( the present tirm of Wild & \Vel)ster. 
.Mr. Hulbert owneil the first power press ever hroiiyht lo llie 
eoiiiity. 

In April, l«!)o, the Nol<oini9 Pro>rress wa.s eslalilished in 
this city l)y J. H. Cole anil .^ . .\. Xall, who eiliteil it for sev- 
eral months. Then .\. .1. KcUlioff leased the plant for a few 
months ami finally withdrew in favor of .Mr. (.!ole. w ho eon- 
tinned as its elitor until l<'ehru:iry l!)tn,ls!»7 .\ t tliislime 
\V. 1'. Ilaythrop lionyht the plant and a month later took 
into partnership K. (.'. UiicU. This partnership cojitinned 



surrounded hy rolling prairies and jir^ssy wuamps, over 
which the wild deer galloped in jrieat herds and through 
which ranjr the fierce {riow I of hunjir.v wolves, ming-led with 
the croak of the Imllfroj;' ; the eart h at times hein<f darkenetl 
with flocks of hlaukhirds, wild ducks and jfeese, cranes, 
lielcha whornpers, etc. Also larae prairie fires that swept 
over this country Hiinnally duriMythe lalland winter months 
served to hreak the monotojiy of nature's song. 

TVTJOKOMIS H \S HKKN NOTKl) lor its I'uhlic .School. 
|^^< which is one of the leadiniT schools in the county, if not 




CITY PARK, LOOKING SOUTHWEST. 



Pholii hv WhillVscv 



until l'"el)iiiary . 1!)02, when I Iih prescnl editor liuu^lit out his 
part lie r's in lei est and has since condii clod I he husiiirss alone. 



«^^!» 



f' 



',HK FIlt.ST KLOUlllNG MILK was erected in ]S(i7 
by Rhodes and Hoxhurf^er. The first hank was organ- 
ized and chartered in .January 1872 under the name of Xuko 
mis National Hank, and which to da.v stands as a innnument 
to the energy and prospeiity of the cilizensof this city and 
community. 

'J'he greater number of our business bouses, especially 
the brick ones, were erecteil between 1«H0 and 1890. Thus 
the city of Nokomis has grown. Thirty-five years ago she 
was hut a small railroad station with half a dozen houses, 



the leader. The citizens have been arnhilious in making this 
school in point of I hoi oiighness and efliciency, the eipial of 
any in the stale. Its l'nl>lic School building is the pride of 
the city. I) H. Zepp was ttie first principal who taught in 
tills liuilding As the population increased it lieeame neces- 
sary lo put up all addition of two rooms on the east and later 
another addition was built to the west. And on .April 20, 
IWIll, this building burned down. Hel'ore the burning emiiers 
were out the board ot education had men at work clearing 
away the debris on the ground, preparatmy to erecting a 
new building During the summer of Iti'JU, thu present 
splendid liuilding w as erected at a cost o! twenty-five thous- 
and dollars.. 

Nokomis has underlying an ine.xhanstatile supply ol 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT, 



water, a veritable lake, a bed of saiul some twenty-five feet 
deep, of water from which is pumped the water that supplies 
the city. 

Au electric liffht plant that supplies the city with an 
abundance of lipht. At this time there are thirty arc lights 
that make the nights as light as day. 

The Big Four recently erected a beautiful depot that 
would be a credit to a larger city. They also erected a 
large freight warehouse. A new railroad will be built soon, 
the Frisco line extension from Shelbyville, Illinois. This 
will be a direct connection with Chicago and St. Louis. 

The city is well equipped with a fire department. 
Two telephone systems with their lines reaching out in 
every direction, reaching every town and city in the county 



It will not be many years before a coal mine will be 
operated in this vicinity, for an inexhaustable supply of coal 
underlays all the land. A prospect hole bored several years 
ago showed a vein of good coal over eight foot thick. 

;S A MARKET this city has the reputation of excelling 
an.v other city of her size, and even towns much larger. 
The farmer knows he can dispose of his produce, fruit and 
vegetables, as well as his cattle, horses, poultry, hay and 
grain when he brings it here, and that he will receive the 
highest market price and honest measure and weights. 




SPRUCE STREET LOOKING NORTH FROM CITY PARK. 



and all partsof the state. It has granitoid walks in the main 
parts of the city. It has all the leading fraternal orders: 
The Masonic, Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and G.A.R. 
There are several life insurance orders, among which 
are the Modern Woodmen of America, ("ourt of Honor, 
Mutual Protective League, Fraternal Aid Association, Fra- 
ternal Army of America, and Modern Americans. Also a 
building association. There are seven churches: — A German 
and Kuglish Methodist, a German and English Lutheran, a 
Presbyterian, Baptist and Catholic. The English Lutheran 
church was the first church building erected in Xokomis. 

,jn*HE CENSUS for IIMH gives the population of the city as 
■Jl 1,371. The population of the city including the town- 
ship is 2,132. The population has been increasing steadily 
since and is uow about 1,500. 



MONG THE INDUSTRIES to be found here, not 
before mentioned, are two elevators, two poultry 
houses, a canning factory, a cooper shop, a machine shop, 
three blacksmith shops two grist mills and the city 
water works, which are operated by the Electric Light 
and Power Company and other businesses are represented 
as follows: 

Two hotels, two printing olflces, six grocery stores, 
three dry goods stores, two gents' furnishing goods stores, 
two hardware and furniture stores, two druggists, two 
restaurants, two bakeries, four livery stables, three hard- 
ware, dry goods and notion stores, one photograph gallery, 
one billiard hall, one bowling alley, one marble works, one 
bank, two tin shops, two meat markets, two harness shops, 
three barber shops, one cigar factory, two jewelry stores, 
one lumber yard, four millinery stores, two coal yards, 
two undertaking parlors, four implement dealers and four 
saloons. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



)AILROAD AND TELEGRAPH.— The followiiifr U a 
statement of the liuBiiiess transacted by the C, C, C. 
& St. L. Jiuilroad at the Nokninis station for llie three poorest 
mouths of tlie year, January, Kehruary and March, 1903, 
compiled and furnished tlirough tlie kindness of Mr. S. R. 
Hudnall, agent. This report includes the c. I. & I. c. 1. 

FREIGHT RKCEIVED. FKEIGHT FORWAKDED. 

January 4,277,816 168 January 2,063,94.') lbs 

February 1,827,959 lbs February 3,178,499 lbs 

March 1,819. 759 lbs March 2.589,346 lbs 

Total 7,925,534 11)8 Total 7,831,790 lbs 

TICKET SALES. 

January ; $ 716 04 

February 701 19 

March 572 HI 



AMERKJAN EXPUErf.S COMPANY. 



FREIGHT RECEIVED. 

January, revenue S~3 71 

February, revenue 163 85 

March, revenue 230 21 



FREIGHT FORWARDED. 

January, revenue $157 71 

February, revenue iJl 02 

March, revenue 148 18 



Total . 



S617 



Total 



j426 91 



Total 

TELEGRAMS RECEIVED. 

January 146 revenue 

February 100 revenue 

March 106 revenue 



11990 05 

.„...S53 32 

... 40 98 

42 25 



Total ... 

Janaary 

February 

March 



352 Total $136 55 

TELEGRAMS SENT. 

112 revenue $30 88 

78 revenue 22 90 

90 revenue 15 65 



QITY OKFICIALH.— Mayor— John Woltmann, Democrat. 
Aldermen First Ward — E. E. Mallory, Republican 
and W. M. Jayne, DenjDcrat. Aldermen .Second Ward — 
W. A. Holmes, RepublicHii and J. R. Meinzer, Republican. 
Aldermen Third Ward— Thomas Wollers, ne|>ublican and 
Dr. W. (;. Hovey, Democrat. City (,'lerk — W. M. I'ooley, 
Repul)lican. (,'itv Treasurer — Kred (,'. Rest, Hepubliean. 
City Attorney- W. G. Webster, Republican. City Marshal 
W. H. Walker, Democrat. Assislatit Cily Marshal — E. J. 
Pullen, Democrat. ^Superintendent of Streets — W. K Sid^s, 
Republican. Health Inspector- Dr. W. !S. Strain, Re- 
publican. Hoard of Health — (jeorjfe HIiss, Geor<fe Sippell, 
James Youii"-, Jos. Wild and John Woltmann. 



Supervisor — K. M. Sawyer, Democrat 
Township Clerk — W.S. Kerr, Republican. 
School Trustee — A If (iriftin, Democrat. 




J. R. MEINZER. 
F. C. BEST. Treasurer. 



THOMAS WOLTERS. 
W, M. TOOLEY, Clerk. 



NOKOMIS CITY COUNCIL. 
W. A. HOLMES. 
JOHN WOLTMANN, Mayor, 



DR. W. C. HOVEY 
E. E. MALLORY. 



WtLLIA.Vt M JA> NE. 
W G WEBSTtk City Attorney. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



^jIFjHE KOLI/OWING DATA was gleaued from reiniuis- and was used for both churcb aud school purposes. It was 
il cences of Mrs. Thomas Ridler, oue among the oldest situated ou T. A. Hiett's lots, coruer South aud Cedar streets. 



and most observant residents of Nokomis. Owing to lack of 
space we are compelled to leave out several iuteresting 
points. Mrs. Ridler came to Nokomis in 186.5 from Harris- 
hurg, Pennsvlvaiiia, with her parents. She states that tlie 
first store was condncled by .Mr. Houtwell on the northwest 
corner of .state and Hine streets; other stores were con- 
ducted at a latter date l)y Messrs. Mulky, Blue and Horace 
Rood, the latter'.s liuilding was on the present postoffiee site 
and faced toward the railroad. The only hotel at that time 
was one on the present site 
of .M rs. A Men's hotel on Front 
and Spruce streets, wliich 
was owned hy Mrs. Ridler's 
father, Mr. I'eter Newcoujer. 
Mr..'^ifronl conducteil a black- 
smith shop on the present 
site of George Engleman's 
store, southeast corner of 
.State and Spruce streets- 
The postotlice was then in 
its present location in .Mr. 
Itood's store, I). H. Hrophy 
being postmasier, but was 
afterwards moved to a build- 
ing where (iriltiii's store now 
i^.tben later to the nortlieast 
coiner of .'^tate and Spruce 
streets in a dry goods store 
owned by .Mr. Hensley, where 
the bank is now located, 
.lohn Johns owned a lumlier 
yard where the German 
Lutheran church now stands. 
'I'he yard was burned in the 
summer of 1875, one year 
after .lohn Johns' deatli. 
The parlors of the New- 
comer hotel were used as 
a waiting room by the rail- 
road. 

Thomas Ridler used the 
first cultivator that 'was 
l)rought to the county, on the 
John H. Beatty farm, now 
owned by H. H. Shepbard. 
It was a Mlackbawk walking 
cultivator. The reservoir was 
built hy tlieC, C.,('. & St. L. 
railroad, on land donated by 
the citizens in the year 1880. 

The city park was laid out 
in 1866, and was used as 
a common until 1871, it was 
then feiiceil and the trees 
set out liy order of the board 
of trustees. 

L'p to 18G0 nearly all the 
business houses faced ttie 
railroad. 

A grain elevator stood ou 
the site of tlie present treight 
warehouse and the telegraph 
office was In Ibeelevator with 
-Mr. N. M. Itelnap as opera- 
tor. 'J'be first scliool house 
was a one story building with 
a panitiou through tbeceuter 




It was taught by Martin .Miller. Miss Phoebe Graves taught 
several summer terms. Daniel Tooley afterwards conducted 
the schools until tlie erection of the new brick building in 
1871. In 186.5 there were only a few residences in this city. 
George (;ulp, at this time, 186.5, was the undertaker and was 
located in a building on the northwest corner of Pine and 
Front streets, the present location of R. L. Anderson's baru. 
Tlie water tower, of which a good illustration is presented 
on tills page, is 102 feet high, 50 feet of the structure being of 

brick aud the balance of steel. 
The waterworks was put iu 
by Mr. Charles T. Tobiii, of 
Hillsboro, Illiuois, at a cost 
of S8000; and since extensions 
to the amouut of $:;.50O have 
been added, and were com- 
pleted ill January, 1895. 

Volumes could be written 
of this beautiful little city of 
Nokomis and the position s)ie 
occupies. Reared ou a pic- 
turesque spot, she has all the 
advantages and none of the 
disadvantages of many other 
cities of like size. 

Touching on the commer- 
cial interests of Nokomis, 
much might be said — more 
than the needs of this occa- 
sion call for. SutHce it, the 
city's location is tlie very 
heart of the garden of south- 
ern Illinois an area in extent 
and productiveness unerjual- 
ed ill any other part of this' 
section. In fact Nokomis is 
solid in every way. Her 
great development is natur- 
al and her enterprises are 
founded on rock. Her busy 
men gather no moss a n d 
come very close to the image 
of their maker. 

Some one has enid; 
Along the vast nnil silent plain, 
1 ride beneath the solemn evening 

»kies; 
In shadowy inajeety around me 
rise 
Hay-heaped mODuments that now 

retain 
Some semblance of the shapes be- 
sides tlie drain 
Of Kpypt's desert when the lotus 

lies 
Withered upon the tombs, and tlie 
proud eyes 
or ancient kinjis are dust. l>ear(jod, 

how vain 
The Pharoahs labor and the mighty 
toil 
Of slaves that built the pyramids 
of old, 
For here are symbols of a nobler 
spoil, 
Won in our battle with earth. Be- 
hold 
Man's history; I feci within my 

breast 
The sadness of the East, the glory 
ol the West. 



WATER TOWER AT CITY WATERWORKS. 



TlIK NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




fHL .'JoKOMIS BAPTIST CHURCH. 

cj|iI*HK NOK()M[,S BAPT18T C:HUR(."H was oioaiiizeii 



iMa.v '24. 1856, Willi a luemlieraliip of ten; ami as a iiiaj- 
oiily ot the luembeis liveil outside tiie tlieii Viilaye ot Xolso- 
ruis, tlie meetings were lieltl for a iiuiiilier of years in a 
sclioolliouse a few miles soulb and east of llie town As Mie 

woris of tliecliurcli was car- 
The Baptist Church. ileU on Hie memhersliip lu- 

oreaseil and il was Mnally 
decided to remove llie place of woisliip into the village of 
Nokomis. iMeelinus were lield at slated times, hy tlie cour- 
tesy ot other church orjriiniz.ttions in their places of 
worsliip, until 1869, when a lot was puich.ised at the corner 
of Union anil Spruce streets, and in 1870 the present church 
buihiing was erected there durnig the pastorate ot Uev. .las. 
M. Slitter. 

A Sunday s<:hool was organized sliortly after the organ- 
ization of the chureli, and fioni a membership of only twel ve 
il has increased toone hundred ami si.xty at this time. I'he 
church membership has grown from the original ten toone 
hundred and sixty-five, not willistamling the many deaths 
ami removals The lirst pastor was Kev. Huslen. and I here 
have been altogether twenty pastors who liave served this 
church as follows: Rev. Husteii, Kov. Jacob V. Hopper, 
Rev. Sampson, Rev R. R. Coon, Rev. E. Jones, Rev Jas M. 
Stiller. Rev. J. H. Mize, Rev. H. L. Kiehls, Rev. Chas. H. 
McKee, Rev, S. J. Greear, Rev. S. H. Bowyer, Rev. J. J. 
Midkiff Rev. S. H. Howyer (second pastorate), Uev. L. H. 
Williams, Rev. .VI. L. Goff, Rev. (J K MofTet, Rev. Ingram 
K. Rill, Rev. (ieo. Kline, Rev. S. I). iMcKenny, Rev. (;. H. 
Si>!tisl)eig and Rev. (Jeo. 1'. Mitchell, the latter being the 
pastor at this lime. It is a remarkable fact that the Baptist 
church of Nokomis has ordained six of the twenty pastors 
which have served it in tho past forty-seven years, and it 
has been called, perhaps with more or less justice, "mother 
of preachers." 

Some of those who have served this church have gone 
far in the line of advancement, among whom might be men- 
tioned Rev. .1. .M. .Stiller, who al Ihc time of his death was 
the president of an eastern Baptist college, 'i'o follow all 
would be impossible and to menticin ever so briefly the great 
work they have accomplislied since the Nokomis church 
knew them would occupy too much space. Many have gone 
to their reward, but their work lives, and will continue to 
live. 

"And their works do follow Ihcni " 



,W*IIK METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 
il was organized in 1850 by Rev. J. C. Pal- 
latte, with but eighteen memliers. The church 
was compleled in 18G8 and iledicated in 1869. 
The same building is still in use by the congre- 
gation, liiit they are making 
M. E. Church, arrangements and expect 
to build a new church be- 
fore anoihei year rolls by. Since its organiza- 
tion ihis church has had a large number of pas- 
tors, namely: J. ('. I'allatte, I'reston Wood, 
Joseph Hairis. Elijah Hutchinson, .\. H. Al- 
(Irich. J. H. Kabrick, William Taylor, K. E. 
Lindley, Robert .\riiiilil, .\. .1. Cushner, George 
Miller, W. H. VVhillock. K. E. Copperth waite, J. 
M. West, r, M. Dillon, L. T. Janes, J. W.Crane, 
II. W. I)avi<, J. J. Dugan, J. iM. Driver, B. K. 
.M.iddeii, J. W. Eckinan, K G. Wood, E. E. Carr, 
W. C. Lacy. K. S. Wamsley, J. S. Tull and J. A. 
Stout, wlio is the present pastor. 

Tlie cliurch has a membership of 21U, ami 
has a Sumlav scliool which was organized in 
1869. and now has 175 members (i. H. Webster 
acls as supei intemlent, and J. H. Crickeiiberger 
MS snperintemlent of the Home Department. The teach- 
ers are Miss Ella Kellogg, H. ( '. Miller, Miss 
Delia Smith, .Miss.lulia Runge. M iss Cliarlotte Holmes, .Miss 
Ida .McKiiwn, .Miss Edna Gaskill, J. H. Crickenberger and 
.1. .\ Sloni 

The church iias an Kpworlh League of si.\ty-tw(i mem- 
bers, of which .) H. ( 'ricUenberger is president. 

They have a .luiiior League of lifty-tlve members of 
which Mrs. May Williiimson is president. 

\Jj IIILR OUR COrXTRY was (lislnrbe.l by Ihe terrible 
" **. calamities of ijiternal strife a III Me band of ( 'liristiaiia 
niel for the purpose of organizing a church. Under the 
leadership of Rev. Joseph Gordan, who had been preaching 
lo them for some time, tliey met on the 2Ist ilay of June 1862_ 

just a few ays 

The Presbyterian Church. i)efoie the seven 

days battle be- 
tween the Union and Confederate forces under the leadership 
of .\lcl lellan and Lee. Though organized in the days of 
battle it lias si niggled on, earnestly seeking to make of its 
members, each, a good soldier of the cross. .At this first 
meeting a series ot resolutions were prepared and accepted, 
to be presented to the next meetin;; of the .Alton Presbytery. 
The paragra|)b preceding this series of resolutions presenteil 
lo the Presbytery expresses the spirit which prompted them 
lo so act. " We deem il a duty we owe to God and for our best 
interest as imiividuals for time an. I for eternily, to form our- 
selves into a church of Christ for the purpose of tlie better 
sustaining the interests of religion in our midst and securing 
the means of grace for ourselves and for oui children and the 
community in w^hich we live." 

This (diurcli was to be known as Ihe First Presbyterian 
church of Nokomis. The buihiing the one now occupied was 
ere(!led in ]8(iO. Since the organization, the church has been 
served by twelve paslors. Rev. .Joseph (Jordan, who labored 
so faithfully to secure an organization remained with this 
people seven years. Rev. Giileon Clark followed remaining 
here for one year. liev. C. K. Siiioyer, for live years; J. P. 
Mills, for three years; James LafTerty, for two years; D. L. 
(iear served the church for only a few months w lien he was 
called lo join the church triumphaiil, he dicil Oct 9,1880. 
riionias E Spillnian lilled the longest pastorate of any of the 



THE XOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



twelve, remainiii;»- with the church for eight years. J. S. 
Simpson remained here for one year. Robert Carson served 
the church for four years and during that time baptised into 
the church seventy-four. J. A. Gehrett served llie cliurcli 
to tlie great satisfaction of its members for three year.s. W. 
C. Logan was with lliechurcli one year, and Will A. Jackson, 
is with the people at the present rime. 

A Sabbath School was organized soon after the church 
organization. Never was the Sabbath School work more 
encouraging uniter the leadership of Mrs. (.hristina {'oilier 
as Superintendent, the school is doing good work. It now 
has a moinbersliip of almost 160. Since November 1st twenty- 
two of the pupils have been received into futl membership of 
the churcli. .Mrs. J. H. Satterlee has charge of the infant 
class; Mrs Collier the bible class: Rev. Will .\. .lackson the 
boys' class; Mrs. Dora Ciumbangh, Mrs. A. A. Shoemaker, 
.Misses Jennie and Myrtle Saftbrd. Miss Isadore Stokes and 
Miss Kate Strain (sub.) are also teachers. 

The young people are active in the (Christian Endeavor 
organization, wliicii has a membership of about tifty, con- 
sisting of active and associate members. Mrs. Dora Crum- 
baugli is president of the society ; M iss Kate Strain, secre- 
tary; Walter Collier, treasurer, and Miss P^nima JJesi, 
organist. 

Nearly five luiridreil nienjbers have been received into 
the church since its organization. 

Two of her younsf men have become the faithful pastors 
of other Congrejjations, Rev. Klisha Safford, of Edwards- 
ville, and Rev. John Strain, of Assumption. Robert Strain 
another of her sons is a member of this year's class in JIc- 
(onnicU 'I'heiilogje.il ."seminary, of Chicago. 

'I he church is enlirely free from debt and increased 
menibersbip and prospeious days seem to be in store for her 



lutiire. 



^IT. MARK'S EVANGELICAL CHURCH was first or- 
^) ganize<l in Audubon township in the fall of 1853. Later 
most of the members of the Audubou church moved iuto or 
near Nokomis, consequently the building in Audubon was 
sold to the Methodists, and St. Mark's Lutheran Ciuirch, of 

Nokomis, was erec- 

English Lutheran Church, ted and dedicated 

October 2 1 , 18G6. 
This building is still in use by the SI. Mark's congregation, 
but was remodeled about fourteen years ago, during the pas- 
toral term of Rev. D. A. Shelter, and again in the summer 
of J!)02, during the pastoral term of Rev. T. B. Hersch. 
Frotn the dale of its organization till September, ■ 1871i, this 
church had no synodical connection. 

Froiu 1872 to 18S7 is was in connection with the Indiana 
Synod of the (General Council, and from 1887 to the present 
time with the Central Illinois Synod of the General Synod. 
Three pastors. Revs. Amos Bartholomew, U. D. Swaney and 
Harkey, served this church during its existence in Audobou 
township. 

Since its removal to Nokomis thirteen pastors have 
served this congregation, viz: Revs. M. M. Bartholomew, 
John Rugan, .M. L. Kuekelem, J. E. Wesner, D. M. Roth 
Tilly. D. A. Shelter, E. S. Rees, 
H. C:. Kunk and T. 15. Hersch. 
about seventy. 

The Sunday School was established a short time before 
the church was first organized and has an enrollment at 
present of about eighty-five. The superintendent is Mr. R. 
T. Paddock, and the teachers are .Misses Jennie Easterday, 
Francis Easteiilay, Alice Hubbard, Mesdaines George 
Schaper, J. W. Russell, and Rev. T. B. Hersch, with one 
class to be supplied, the one formerly taught by M. A. Keis- 
lar, wlio moved away. 



R. L. Baine, C. R. Slierck, 
The present membership is 



«^^^ 



«^^^ 




FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 



THE 1-lKST ITEM of the history of St. Louis' Church 
of NoUoinis dales hack to the year 1859, when Rev. 
Michael Colton. of l^itchtield, attendeil this place as a sta- 
tion, coming perhaps but once a .vear, to permit of the few 
Calliolics in Ibis vicinily performing their Easter duties. 

Inegular services continued 
St. Louis' Church. from that lime, the congrega- 

t ion nieel iiig al private houses 
most fre(|uently at the home of Thomas I'uohy, who was 
then foieniaii of the section and kept a lioanling house for 
I he scclioM m<-n in a building wliich stood just north of (he 
rMiiroad and just east of Spruce street — until 1867, when the 
services of Rev. Cusack were secured to visit Nokomis regu- 
larly once a month, and what was known as Blue's hall, at 
the corner of State and Spruce streets becaiue the place of 
meeting. Rev. Cusack was succeeded by Rev. Welch and 
he by Rev. Julian Tunnel, and under the laller, on July 4th, 
1870. the congregation was organize<l and the subject of 
liuildinjr a cliuriMi lieuan to be Hgilateil, resulting in theerec- 
tion in 1871 of Ihe building which was occupied until .May 
2-1, 1!)U0. In 1874 Rev. Kiederic Lohmann, located at Hills- 
hiii-o, became the attending [iriest, remaining two years, 
u hen be was succeeded by Rev. P. J. Virnich, who remain- 
ed in i-barge uiilil 18S1. Rev. P. .A. Lyons replaced Rev. 
Slorp in November, 1893, and remained until July 1897, 
when Rev. (,'. .lobaiines, the present oceupaiit became rector. 
Again the capai'ity of Ihe church was found iiisufTicient 
and afier inui-b discussion, a meeting was called on May 1, 
1898, lo consider ihe matter. .At this meeting the i)astor of- 
fereil to contribute 11,000 toward the erection of a new and 
handsome church and this aroused the enthusiasm of those 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




ST. LOUIS' CHURCH. 

present ti) such a (legfee tliat it was decided ti> make the 
efl'ort. Rev. Joliiiiiiies then lieijaii an active canvass for 
funds ainj nvet with such succe.ss as soon assured the erection 
iif a .s| met lire of wliicli I lie eonirre>;;iti()n niiijlit be piiuid. 
Plans were secured ami, under the siipeivision of M.Ohl- 
nian, H..). Bender and William Olierle. directors, and David 
Heilih.v ami Krank VacUle, trustees, the contract was let lo 
H. Beryfeldt, of Etflnuhain, and on .Inl.v 4th, 1899, the corner 
stone of the present handsome eititice was laid with impres- 
sive ceremonies l)_v the Very Hev. N'iitar-General T. Hickey, 
and on May 24th, 1900, the finest chutch in Montj^omery 
county was dedicated. 

The hnildinjr is constructed of limestone and |)ressed 
brick, in Romanesque sty le, with I riininini;s of Bedford rock 
and slate iciof, anil covers a j^round space of 6-5 l)y l:iO feet. 
The auditorium is 84 foet ileep and 40 feet from tloor to ceil- 
ing, lifi'hted b,v beautiful staine<l g:lass windows. A tower 
130 feet high and surmounted by a large gilde<l 
cross, rising from the southwest corner of the 
building, and contains a peal of three bells. 

In connection with the St. liouis Church the 
following societies are represente<l : Ladies' A I tar 
Society, witli a meiidiership of 11(1, ami the 
t'atliolic Kniglils of Illinois, Biancb Si', a benevo- 
lent association. 

FT WAS ON THE ■.•8th of .March, l8i«, wlien 
4L nine staunch l,ntherans, firmly convinced of 
the necessity of a l/Utheran Clinrch, holding high 
the banners of divine truth, pure and umletlled, 
resolved to make energetic efforts in erecting an 

adequate 

German Lutheran Church, bui ig 

f o r 1 1 i 
vine services. 'I'heir work was crowned with 
unlooked for success; great liberality was evi- 
denced by all members and the present band- 
some church rose— a momiment of love and grati- 
tude to Iheir Savior. 

The 8th of October, 1893, was the long antici- 
pated day of rejoicing and happiness, witnessing 



the dedication of the new eliurch edifice. Two 
impressive ami inspiring services were eon- 
ducted by Professor L. Wessel, of Springfield, 
aint Iteverend C. Hoist, of Mount Pulaski, 
Illinois. 

On the L'lid of October, the previously lueii- 
tioned organized what is now known as the 
I':vaiigelical Lutheran Trinity Congregatioji. 

As usual, the blessed work of our heavenly 
l-'alher met with opposition and discourage- 
ment fri>m the very begiiniing. 

Satan marshaled all his hosts against the 
lillle fiocU, but the members trusting in Him, 
with whom nothing is impossible, and ever 
mindful of His blesseil promise, " 1 shall never 
forsake I bee nor leave thee," continued their 
glorious work and now reap the fruit of llieir 
paliein'e and perseverance. 

Bevereiid I'. Kolb was the first pastor anil 
with great sincerity laboreil for one year and 
then accepte<l a call to a larger parish in 
.Stewardson. Illinois. 

Kor thiee years Heverend iM. J^erman, of 
St. Paul's Congregation, officiated as pastor. 
The congregation again feeling able to support its own 
pastor, extenited a call to \\ illiam .1. Kowert. who accepted 
and was oidained and installed on .Inly 6lb, ]',m-2. 

The Congic^ation numbeis at prrsent l.iO souls, 90 com- 
nninicant members, 18 enjoying voting privileges. 

The Sunday School superiidendeid is .VI r. Kellermann, 
and the teachers are .Misses .A Eckliotr. Emma Nantkes, 
.Martha Kowert and .Mrs. Anna BrakenliofT. 'I'be schmd has 
an enrollmeni of 40. 

The Ladies' Aid Society, umler the le.idership of Mrs. s 
Eckhoff, labors incessantly to defray current expenses. 

.-\ church choir, diiecleil by .Miss A. EckhoU, embellishes 
all divine services with appropriale music. 

The congregation is at ineseiit in a very prosperous and 

flourishing condilion. .All services — moriiinir and eveninif 

(iermaii and English— are let'iilarly ailended. 

Mav God in His mercy ever coiiliiuie to bless the work- 
begun here in His name alone to His glory and honor and 
the welfare of erring imihortal souls. 




GERMAN LUTHERAN CHURCH. 



10 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




GERMAN METHODIST CHURCH. 

^*HE GERMAN MKIHODIST CHURCH, of Nokomis, 
JP WHH lirst estahlisheit in 1898. However, in 1890, Hev. 
(;. .1. Stnekeman began preaching here and was succeeded 
1>V Rev. W. ('. Hchullze, who was followed b.v Rev Tlieo. 
Kies, and Rev. O. L. Hoellner succeeded him anil organized 

Itie church in 1898. 

German Methodist Church, rue tirst church 

w a s erected i ii 
1898, and is still in use liy the Methodist congregation. 
They have a nieinhership of about sixty and since its organ- 
ization at this place has had two pastors, Rev. Guid<i L. 
Boellner and Rev. Albert F. I.ud wig, who is the present 
pastor. 

They have a Sunday School, wliicli was established in 
1897 by Kev. \V. C. Schiiize, and which now lias about si.xty- 
tive scholars. The siipeiinteudent is K. .). Pannwitt. and 
llie teachers are Mrs. (i. Brakenhotf, Mrs. .\. K. hudwig, 
Miss .Anna Zcuiiueraiaiin, Miss Clara Kneclit, 
.lulius Kettelkauip, Henry Uudey, Fred Kettel- 
kaiDp. John Wildy and Mrs R. Zinjjnei niann. 

lOTWITMS r.ANDlNG the claims of materi- 
alists and aginistics, Christianity not only 
is not losing ground but is spreading o'er the 
earth like the lirancbes of a great tree. Never 
before was this workaday world so busy. The 
diMiion of iron, of steam, of rush aiut bustle and 
appalling consolidations of capital is among us. 
l>ut ii has not matle men forget the grent Archi- 
tect and Engineer wlio built and directs tliis 
great Universe, tlie heightli. or ilepth, or length, 
or breaiHli of which no man has conception. 
Amid the metalic clang of the trip hammer, 
amid the whir of the looms and giant inachjneiy, 
aniiil the liissiii;: and the shrieks of sirens men 
are not forgetting their (Jod. Cliurches are being 
builded as never before — not even in the Mi<ldle 
.^ges. A town without a cliurch is not to he 
li<:!iid anywhere upon the face of the earth. 
Especially in the United States is this so SpeaK- 



ing from a material stand point, cliurches en- 
hance the value of real and personal property 
in every community. They give an air of re- 
spettalnlity whicii would otherwise be lacking. 
Nokomis lias, since her foundation, been 
noted lor her temples of worship. As soon as 
the timbers had been felled and a few log 
cabins reared there followed pla<;es of worship. 
The pioneers of the city of Nokomis had that 
abiding faith in the Almighty which made 
their laliors sweet anil their burdens easy to 
carry. 

.And their successors have kept the faith 
and have been bountifully I'lessed by Him who 
holds the Universe in the hollow of His hand. 
'I'he various ministers of Nokomis who 
have gui<led the spiritual destinies of the 
faiibful for more than fifty years have made a 
glorious record indeed. 

So far as ttie writer can learn they have 
all proiluced a most favoraole impression and 
accomplished much good. 

I'bey all seem to have been men of un- 
bounded energy, of wonderful fertilitv of intel- 
lect, consumed with the clesire to bring souls 
lo (iod. 'i'hey have all been powerful and convincins 
preachers of the gospel, fearless in their attack'on evil, yet 
with all liberal minded, and ever ready to discern the grains 
of truth concealed in a mass or error. 

Men of great zeal and sincerity of purpose, able minis- 
ters and general favorites with their congregations. 



«t^-^» 



Editor. 



OHRlSTIANri'Y meets the dark pessimism of the world 
with its own glorious optimism. It, too, believes tlie 
stars go down, liiit only •' to shine upon some fairer shore." 
'I'o the Christian who is true to Ids relli; ion all life is the work- 
ing out of a sul)lime plan, whose only end is tlie common 
good. Before the very tragedies of life he stands and says, 
"Thou Shalt know not now. but afterwards." To him deatli 
is rolibed of its sting and tlie grave of its victory. O, that 
Christians would be true to the colors under which they have 
enlisted. 




ENGLISH LUTHERAN CHURCH. 



(See Pace 8.) 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



11 



HHR SCHOOI.S of NokomU hefraii siiiiull:nie<)iisly with 

the town. The ("ily was plat led in l!So6, anil lor a lew 

year,s thereafter sehool was t.-iiii^ht in private Imildiiijrs, 

rented by the school aiilhorilies I'oi' that particular purpose. 

The ground upon which was erecte<l Nokoinis' first puh- 

lio school building now 

Nokomis Public Schools, forms the lot on the 

southeast e o r n e r of 
Cedar and South streets, and is owned hv Mrs. 'I'. A. Hiett. 
'I his oriifinal structure was frame in character, consisted of 
hul one room and was erected about lH(i(l. It was used hy 
tlie public as a place for holdiiij;: town meetinjfs and public 
assemblies. 

The reliirions services of the village were also held here. 
Each denomination took its regular turn in using the prop- 
erty for this purpose. It seems as though " Father" Gmdon, 



ployed. The other teacher, however, was his wife. These 
two rooms and two teachers were suHicient to satisfy the 
conditions for a while longer; but it was only a matter of 
time until more room was necessitated. This want was luet 
by renting, temporarily, first one building ami then another, 
as the third room for educational instructiou. Tlie (juestlon 
ot constructing a new school-house nalurally grew out of 
these conditions, and in the summer of 1871 a two-sioiy brick 
building was erected im the ground occii()ied by our present 
building. 'I'his new structure comprised four rooms, uniform 
in si/.e, and a smaller one known as the recitation room, in 
which the superintendent lield his classes. 

Prior to the year 1871, the school of Nokoinis had not 
been graded. Like other things, they hail to run their 
course. Hence it might he said there were no rec<u<ls, no 
grades, no organi/.al ion ; and the work of examining and 




NOKOMIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 



"Uncle Hillie" Van Hooser and Martha Miller did most of 
the preaching at ttiis time. 

This school-house was not only used as a place for speak- 
ing and preac-hing, but also as a place for instruction in 
nnisic. Dr. H. .S. Strain, Nokoinis' Hrst music teacher, or- 
ganized a class in this subject and taught it in tlie school 
building. 

Perhaps Ihe first teacher that ever taught in Nokomis 
was Vale IJncoln. It is said by good authority that a memo- 
rial exercise was held in the school-house on the day of his 
burial. 

One of the early teachers in the old building was 
"Squire" Walls, who taught for several years with good 
success. .\tn)thei-, who taught a little later, was Dan Tooley. 
He is remembered also as having t.aught with ex(^ellent suc- 
cess. It was during his ad mi nisi ration thai the school build- 
ing was enlarged to two rooms, and a second teacher em- 



classifying the pupils and placing I he schools on an organized 
basis, was to devolve upon the superintendent in charge at 
the opening of school in the new buililing. ITp to this time 
there hail been no su|)eriiitendent of schools. Mr D H. 
Zepp, one of Ihe most Ihorough attorneys of Montgomery 
County, is tlie man who was employed for Ihe work, and 
who, therefore, has the honor of being Ihe first regular super- 
intendent of the Nokomis Public Schools. 

In 187(i an east wing of two riKiius was added and in 1887 
a west winsr of I wo more rooms was added, making altogether 
nine rooms, including the small recitation room 'I'lie build- 
imr continued in this form iinlil Wednesday nighi, April 19, 
1899, when it and all of its conlents were destroyed by fire, 
'i'he properly was estiinaled at jatOOO, but after estimating 
depreciation Jl 1,(100 insurance on building and Si;..")0(» on con- 
tents was paid. The cause of tlie lire is not known. 

On May 5, 1899, an election was lield on ihe question of 



12 



THE XOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



issiiiii? boiiils to the amount of $10,0(10 to apply on a new 
building-. 

The piojiosition carried almost unanimously; so this 
snm, increased by .*lo,500 received as insurance on the old 
buildiiifr and contents, $1,000 pieinium paid for the bonds, 
constiluled the buil<linj,'' fund for the new school liouse. 

'I'lie present school building is two-story, lias ten lar<j:e 
rooms, superintendent's office, library room, and five base- 
ment rooms. The builitino: is equipped in every respect 
with tlie best of nialerial and accordin-f to the most modern 
school ideas. 'J'he buikling-, as it now stands, is estimated at 
$25,000. 

Our Hiffli School is in good condition. It is well equip- 
ped an I supplied with library facilities, has a $1,000 piano in 
it, siinports a literary society and an alunini association, and 
maintains a strong four years course of instruction The 
work of the High School is divided departmentally, Mr. 
.Miller having the science, .\liss Holmes the liatin and mathe- 
matics, am! Miss Smith the Kiiglish unit History. Our reci- 
tation periods are of regulation length — 40 minutes — except 
in laboratory work, the periods of which are dotibled. 

The Hiyh School was place<l on the accrediteil list of the 
University of Illinois for the first time under the supervision 
of the present incumbent. .Ml of its work is accredited, our 
nuinbei of credits l)eing 42 1-2, which is G 1-2 more than is re- 
quired to enter as a freslunan. By virtue of our University 
creilit we are accredited by the State Normals of Illinois. We 
are also on ShurtleflT's accredited list. In consideration of 
our standing witli such educational institutions as those 
mentioned, siraduates of the Nokomis High School should 
have no trouble in receiving full credit for work <lone here, 
on entering other institutions of learning, whether tliey be 
scliDols iif nie<licine, law, or of hi<rher education. 

The Moar<l of Education is composed of aggressive, yet 
conservative men, whose names are as follows: A. .1. VVilli- 
fnr<l. presiilent; I). H. Zepp, secretary; Thomas Ridler, (i. 
H. Webster, .1. H. (.'rickenberger, .loliri Woltmann, II. T. 
Paddock. 

Our excellent corps of teachers is as follows: Harry C;. 
Miller, superintenileiit ; Chailotte Holmes, principal of Higli 
ScliDol; Delia Smith, assistant principal; Minnie K. I'unte- 
ney. grade 8; Myrtle SafToitl, grade 7; Knmia Hutchins, 
gr.tdefi; Maggie Manning grade 5; Knima Scales, grade 4 ; 




IVIETHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. 



Augusta Hand, grade 3; Ida McKown, grade 2; Mary Beck, 
grade 1 ; Leiia Whitten, music; Clyde Liticker, janitor. 

The following is a complete roster of superintendents : 
I). H. Zepp, 1871-1872; Dr. E. E. Newberry, 1872-1874; D. H. 
Zepp, 1H74-187.5; S. W. Culp, 1875-1876; L. B. Whitham, 
1876-1877; William M. Clirichton, 1877-1878; J. M. Dixon, 
1878-1879; A. C. Hancock, 1879-1881 ; J. M. Dixon, 1881-1882; 
C. P. Schwer, 1882-1883; G. K. Miner 1883-1885; .I.R.Ed- 
munds, 188.5-1888; W. B. Davis, 1888-1891; M. I-. Mclntyre, 
1891-1898; R. H. Perrott, 1898-1900; Harry C. Miller, 1900— 

EDlMWriON is a better safeguard of liberty than a stand- 
i iniT army. Education is essential to the perijetuity of 
a government by the people. This was recognized by those 
who established the Union, and has never been questioned 
by any who were siucere in their efforts to maintain this a 
free government. 

Every state has made ample provisions for tlie free edu- 
cation of its coming citizens. In many states public wisdom 
has not been contented with sayinsf that ever.v child may 
liave ttie opp(Mluiiitv to lie educated if he desire, but has 
a'one an imjtoitant step farther and said that every child 
must take advantage of these opportunities, regardless of his 
or her parents' desire. 

So important and vital is free education that, next to the 
home, it stands dearest to the great heart of American 
liberty. 

Every city and village point with pride to the fact that 
provisions for education have been maile in their localities. 
One of the chief inducements wliich lead people to seek homes 
in any locality is the fact that such locality maintains a good 
system of pul)lic education. 'I'he most abundant facilities for 
transportation, natural resources, manufacturing establish- 
ments, and low rates of public taxation, all would fall short 
of building up a happy, permanent and prosperous com- 
munity if the element of eilucation for the children be unpro- 
vided for, or be placed in private hands, whereby it is acces- 
sible only to those who are blessed with the means to meet 
the expense. Only free public education, including element- 
ary, hi!;h, college, universities and technical schools meet 
the demands of the .American ideas. No greater bar exists 
to the progress and growth of a city and state 
than the fact that they occupy a secondary place 
in education, or are indifferent to its support. 
No cause will compel good people to seek homes 
elsewhere as much as the knowledge that any 
state or locality, otherwise inviting, has failed to 
provide for the free education of the sons and 
daughters of her citizens. The Stale of Illinois 
has never taken a backward step in this great 
work. She has shown her enduring interest by 
unfaltering support to every enterprise wliicli 
offered increased educational advantages to her 
people. 

The educational facilities of Nokomis have 
kept pace with the city's growth in other lines. 
The iniireasing needs of the city's rapidly-grow- 
ing population have been met from time to time, 
until from the village school-house of one room 
and one teacher a prosperous, well-equii)ped sys- 
tem of schools has been established which is sec- 
ond to none in a town of her size. 

Kducation is to unfold nature; to strengthen 
good and coni|uer evil; to give self-help; to 
(Sec Pace 7.) make a man. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



13 




M' 



JOHN WOLTMANN, MAYOR. 

.Men «honi lilt' \i,sl ut otlict' Uoi'S noi kill; 
.Men whom tll^ ajjoils of oilk^e itoes not buy; 
.Mfii wlio possess opinion and a will; 
Men who have honor, men who will not lie. 



i^r liiiiiilcl, tlie 



|ERE A8 IN every oilier eitv, vilhit 
__ mayor is the leading' eliaracter. 'I'o him all visitors 
pay tbeir respects; to him the people look for protection and 
enforcemeiit of law ami or<ler. 

Vet it is not always that <;oO(l men are selecleil or can he 

induced toac- 

John Woltmann, Hayor cept this in.n- 

orable posi- 
tion. Oeeasionaily there is to he found a fearless 
man, a believer in law and order, one vvlni has the 
nerve to assert his principles and enforce the law 
in an honest and manly way. 

It is tlien that we speak with a spirit of en- 
thusiasm of the Hun. John Woltmann, the (gentle- 
manly and popular mayor of Nokomis, who was 
recently elected for tlie second time for tliis lion- 
orable position. His detaileil course is so well 
known from his last ailmlnistral Ion tliat the peo- 
ple liave no fear as to llie results of liis present. 

He realizes that what henetits [lini lienefits 
the best elements of Nokomis. He is a <;(>od 
business man, a man of more than ordinary e.\- 
ecutive abilities. l)roa<l-a:auu:eil, hi»^-heaited and a 
mail ill wliom the people have implicit confidence. 

Mr. Jolin Woltmann was horn in the city of 
Norden, Ostfiiesland, (iermany ,011 Aiiyust 27lh, 
18.58. And at the a<;e of tell years lie emi-rriiled 
witli his parents to America; here he finished 
his education. 



He be<raii life for liimself as a teacher of the German laii- 
guan-e in the public .schools, and at the. same time instructing a 
private class, hut this proved too trying upon his weak consti- 
tution and was abandoned. His ne.xt work was lliat of 
clerking in the store of Charles Aiiwater, of Nokomis, hut 
working for some one else was not his idea of business; so 
early in 1882 he establishe<l himself in the grocery business. 
.■\ I though small in the beginning, it is today the leading gen- 
eral store of Nokomis. This twenty-two years in the mer- 
cantile business has made him one of the best known 
men in the county, and in liim the public has found a faith- 
ful ami unswerving friend, one who is ever ready to serve 
his frieiiils, a man of more than ordinary intelligence, and a 
representative cil izen of I he county. 

He was married to .Miss .Minnie Nanlkes.of this city, 
Novemlier 1!H. 1884. They have four sons. .Arnold, jiged Hi; 
.lesse, 14; l.oui.', !», ami Carl, (i. All of them are yet in 
school. 

iMr. Wiiltnwiii is a member of the (ierinan l.ulheian 
Church, of which he is an e.xeinplary member. 

Tliis is .Mr. WoltmaiTs second term as mayor, he having 
held the nffice in 18!)7-l8iJ8. He has also served the city 
for years as conncilnian and is n<iw serving his ninth year as 
scliool director. He is a sluckholdei .ind director of the 
Nokomis National Haidi. 

He has entered upon the duties of his ne« uflice wit Ik ml 
a pledge to be fullilleil to friemls or a thieal to be executed 
upon enemies. His success has justified the wisdom of the 
people of Nokomis in mnking him their chief execnl ive. As 
mayor he is thoughtful, and in all things acts with justice, 
tempered wiih mei(;y. 

'I'he city's streets, public; buildings anil oilier miiiiicipal 
interests are eared lor with the same fidelity as he applies Ici 
his own concerns. Throngli his tiusix' lieiilenaiils, appoinled 
because of I heir fitness rather than thrcnigh their party lines. 
Mayor Wollmaiin sees that tlie laws are en forced. This is 
manifest in the safety and security uf the people's property. 
And this makes Ncikomis attractive to those who prize good 
governinent and honest adniinistrations. 'I'o dispense the 
charity of the city without woun<ling the recipient; to do 
justice to the criminally disposed withont vindicliveness re- 
<|iiires a balance and an erjuipoise rarely developeil in any 
one man. 

Mayor Woltniaii is one of the very busy men of this city. 
Iiut is iie\er so nineli eiiiiaged that lie cannot attend to the 
so(!ial as well as the ofHcial duties of his office. He finds time 
tn miiii;le with fi iends and to eiij<iy the comforts of a cliarm- 
iiiit home. 




NOKOIVII8 ROLLER MILLS. 



14 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



m 



■|0 BE I'TER criterion of the solidity and permanency of 
a city i>« Hff°urited than a glance at the status of its 
finanrial institutions. The stability of coiDtuercial interests 
are, ton larjre extent, dependent upon the policy and condi- 
tions of local banking houses. They are the heart of the 

commercial life, and the 
Nokom is National Bank various avenues of trade 

are the arteries through 
whicli flow the fliiancial currents of business. 

'I'he history of the Nokomis National Bank has been an 
unhroken recoril of progress since its inception. It is con- 
structed upon the soundest and most conservative business 
principles, and Its management is characterized l)3' sagacity, 
energy, and ability, coupled with liberality and honorable 
methods, closely identifying itself with the many movements 
that have helped in the onward growth of the city of No- 
komis and .Montgomery CoUHty, and contributing liberally 
to their interests and prosperity. 



Thirty-one years of continuous business prosperity is the 
record of this, Montgomery County's largest and strongest 
bank. 

The following is an official statement of tlie bank, made 
to tlie comptroller of the currency, April 9th, 1903: 

RESOURCES. 

Loans and discounts $263,031 66 

United States and other bonds 103,300 00 

Banking house and furniture 7,500 00 

Cash and due from bauks 98.640 26 

Total $472,471 92 

LIABILITIES. 

Capital stock $65,000 00 

Surplus and undivided profits 44,627 09 

Circulation 6o,o00 00 

Deposits 297,844 83 



Total 



$472,471 92 







NOKOMI8 NATIONAL BANK. 



The bank was organized and chartered in January, 1872, 
with Mr. .lohii H. Beaty president, Mr. A. E. McKinney 
vice-president, and Mr. B. F. Culp cashier. In 1877 Mr. 
Horace K. Rood became president, Mr. George Taylor vice- 
president, and Mr. .Mf. GrifHn cashier. October 1, 1886, Mr. 
A. J. VVIIIiford was appointed cashier. In 1893 Mr, George 
HIppell became its president. All these gentlemen are well 
known tliroughout this portion of the state and are uni- 
vtrsaliy recognized for their public spirit, 



Tlie Board of Directors are: George Sippell, George 
Taylor, John Woltmann, Jacob Haller, J. A. Kohu, A.J. 
Williford, O. H. Spannagel, N. Singer, and W. H. Cassel- 
berry. Aside from this board there are twenty-one stock- 
holders. 

Here is employed every safeguard for the protection of 
their patrons and all whose funds are entrusted to their care. 

They have two superior fire-proof vaults, with the latest 
improved iMosier Screw Door Safe with Yale triple time 



!(_)' 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



15 




GEORGE SIPPELL. 

look, and are fully liisureil a<rainst Imrjrlar.v hikI dayllulil 
IidIiI up 'I'hese are fealmes worlhy of coiisldeiation. In 
fact, there are many features connected with this \>auk tliaf 
siionld be considered i)y everi^one in Montgomery County 
\vlu> intends to open a hank account. 'I'his l)aMk is a time- 
tried institution of more tlian local importance, and is a safe 
ami sound repository for funds. 

It is located on the nortlieast corner of Wtate and Spruce 
streets, in the lari;e and handsome hrick structure known as 
the Xokoinls National hank luiildini;', tl)e hank occiipvin'; all 
of the first floor. The inleriiu' is handsomely fitted up after 
tfie style of metropolitan liankinj; institutions, the furniture 
hein<r snl>stantial as well as eleiranl, ami aff'ordiii>; ample 
convenience for the trausaction of business. 

Of tlie personnel of tlie officials a few remarks mijiht 
lie appropriately aihled. 



«V^^ 



n fl K. GEOKfiE SIPI'K1,I>, the president, was horn in 
i~^ I- Hamilton County, Oliio, in l^i45, and educated in his 
iial i ve state. He came to J lliiiois in 180."), locatiii": at Litch- 
field, and in 1H68 lie iemoved io No(;<iinis, eii<ra!;iiii!: .in the 
jewelry business, which he coiiducteil for nearly "thirty-four 

years In 1871, .lanu- 

George Sippell, President ary ^onr," he was 

United in marria>rp to 
Miss Anna K. Hale of Covington, Kv. "I'lieir uidhn' has 
been IHessed by three cliildreir, riVottons arid one daiij; liter." 
'I'hey lost by ilealli their two soirs. 'rtieir dan;;liter. .Nlis.s 
Kssie, is a yoiin<f lady of nineteen summers ami a recent 
ffraduate of Moiiticello Seminary of (ilodfrey, Illimiis. 

Mr. Sippell has been a resident of Nokonils for more than 
thirty-five years, and has won an enviable reputation as a 



prudent and juilicial mana'^'er, a shrewd judL'c ri|" values and 
a man of scrupuiousf^iiteg-rity. 



«^-5^ 



MR. .ANDRICW J. WIM.II'OHI) is the third cashier 
of tliT.s' iiank. He wa,s born in M<)nt(;omery Coiinly' 
Illinois, .lanuar.v L'S. IstiL', and received his primary educa- 
tion in the common schools of his stale, irradu.-ttinir from the 
Hi^h School, class of IS"!). He was married to Miss .Mary 

.lobnson, of Hills' 

Andrew J. Williford, Cashier imuo, Illinois, 

February 8, 1883 
Seven children were l)orn to this union, tour sous anil Ihiee 
<lau;;hters. Of these only four are now livin<f, two sons and 
one (laufrhler havinjr died in infancy The writer is iii- 
formeil that the two daui.'hlers. Misses Kathleen and Bessie, 
arejust iiuddiii": into womanhood. .Miss Katlileen is atteinl- 
insr Sliurtlelf Collesre, Cpper .Alton. Miss Hessie is yet in 
the Hijrh School of NoUomis. 

Mr. Willitbrd is a member of the Maptist Church, lias 
sei ved the city as city councilman, as a member of the scliool 
board and as president of that board for the past six years. 
He is also president of the Merchants' Leajrue, Past-Master 
of the A. K. & .A. M., Companion in I'ana Chapter R. A. M., 
and I'ast-l'atron of the O. E. S. 

Mr. Williford is an experienced accountant, a diliu'ent 
student ol Hahkiiif; and Hankinjr Law. and his twenty _\ears 
of business experience has lent much to the success of the 
Nokomis National l'>ank. No citizen of Nokomis is more 
hi<;hly respected ami he always favors that which is for the 
upbuildiiiir of his city and is considered one of its most liberal 
and pro;; ressi ve men. 




ANDREW J. WILLIFORD. 



16 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



^HIS HONORABLE anil responsible position is one of 
the most dilTicult to fill of any public otfice within our 
kiiowleilge Kveri' man thinks there is just two positions 
in which success awaits him, if lieonl.v bail the opportunity 
lo fill one or the otiier, and they are postmaster of bis town 

and editor ot bis 

Charles F. Best, Postmaster town paper, 

while really 
tbere is not one out of a thousand that can fill either suc- 
cessfully. 

But Nokoinis seems to have bit upon just the rig-bt man 
in the person of Mr. ('harles K. Best, and today it is admit- 
ted by all that he is admirably fitted for the position. While 
he has been an ardent party man, and a hard worker for 



Samuel Kettelkamp is the carrier on Route No. 2. 
I. G. Hubbard is the carrier on Route No. 3. 
H. R. Mallory is the carrier on Route No. 4. 
'i'he carriers distribute mail to about 400 fatuities. 
Another route may soon be established. 

Mr. Cbarles K. Best was born in .Madison (,'ounty. Illi- 
nois, July 29, 1858, and was educated in ibis state. He 
speaks German fluently He was married to Miss Mary 
Bote, of Witt, Illinois, March 17lh, 1881. They have two 
daugrbters, who, as before stateil, are in the postotlice with 
their father. 

Mr. Best Is a nieinlier of the Presliyterian (,'hurcb and 
has held the foliowiiiff ottices, viz: .At present postmaster, 




Emma Best. 
George H. Best. 



Charles F. Best. 
Samuel Kettelkamp. Isaac Hubbard, Jr. 



Martha Best. 

Herman R. Mallory. 



what lie believes is right, he has never been offensive or 
boastful in his manner. His demeanor since going into office 
has been such as to command the respect and esteem of all 
parties. 

Mr. Best is ably assisted by his daughter, Miss Emma, a 
beautiful and accomplished young laiiy, but a thorough busi- 
ness woman, popular and accommodating. 

Miss Martha, a younger daughter, but none the less 
favorite, is a clerk in tlie office. 

There are four rural routes out of this office. George H. 
Best IB the carrier un Route No. 1. 



several terms as townslilp collector, and secretary of the 
Republican county central committee. He is also a member 
of the following lodges: Knights of Pythias, Mutual Pro- 
tective League, and Yoemen of America. 

.Mr. Best iias demonstrated that he is a business man. 
He is giving a business man's administration of affairs in 
his office and the people of Nokoiuis will have substantial 
reason for appreciating liis eflbrts in this direction. He lias 
a force around him whose actions in their public service are 
uniformly courteous. Always polite and obliging, a tireless 
worker, such is the Nokomis postmaster. 



11 



o 

m 
z 
o 



m 

I 
> 
z 
z 
O 
z 




THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



19 




JESSE S. GRIFFINS HARDWARE AND FURNITURE STORE. 



Photo by Whmlesey. 



Robert C. Whittlesey, 
Photographer. 



Tf ONG BEKORK MAN invented letter by which he 
4i^ coulil better record for posterity wliat lie liad ieiinie<l 
he made pictures, as tlie easiest way for liim to impart liis 
knowledofe to otliers. And even after tlie advent of letters 
their crudity was about on a par with that of their former 

pictures Hut as the cen- 
turies rolled l)y the gen- 
ius of man wroufrlit great 
eliaiiges in the c h i ro- 
graphy of the world. Yet no more rapid has tliis been tlian 
the art of making fine pictures, and chief among the latter 
is the improved |)r<)gress of the photographer. It is quite 
natural that one of the leading institutions of Nokomis 
should be a photograph studio, and it is a fortunate combin- 
ation of circumstances which gave the business into tlie 
hands of those who possess real taste, and have the neces- 
sary enterprise to keep abreast of the limes, 

Mr. Whittlesey, whose name forms the caption of this 
article, can be safely ranked as the leading artist of this sec- 
tion of Illinois, and it is also safe to say that few, if any, cit- 
ies of the United States of the population of Nokomis have 
the equal of this establishment, or one so abundantly sup- 
plieil with all the requisites of the business. His workman- 
ship has in a high degree that artistic develojnuent, which 
enaliles him to compete with more than ordinary talent. All 
of the photographs for this book were iiiaile by .Mr. Whittle- 
sey, which show in a general way, tlie capacity of this estab- 
lishment, hut of course the printing of a plate in a book can- 
not show the full beauty of the photograph. 



Mr. Whilllesey has made photography a life study. He 
began his trade in 1883, his instructor being I'rof. I>. H. Bis- 
sell, president of the Illinois College of Photography, and 
has put in fully twenty years in this line, and now feels fully 
competent to perform the most ditlicult work that may be 
brought him in his line of Inisiness. 

Mr. Whittlesey was horn in Upper A Hon, October 6lh 
1869, and was educated in EtHiig-ham and Chicago. He was 
married to Miss Vaila Williams on April •22, 1887, at Ktliiig- 
ham, Illinois. To this union has been b:>rn three girls and 
one boy. His only son, Robert, is a l)riglit boy, and capable 
of making for himself a name worthy to be remembered. He 
is gaining rapidly in knowledge and every morning may be 
seen in his place at school. The two youngest children are 
both in school, and by their pleasant manners, and cheerful 
ways are favorites with all who know them. Edith the eld- 
est daughter, is one of tlie many handsome young ladies of 
Nokomis. She was oblig-ed on account of weak eyes logive 
up her school work, sooner than she anticipated, but never- 
theless has studied photography at Ettingham, and may be 
counted among the world's greatest artists. 

Mr. Whittlesey is a member of the I. O. O, K., M. W. A. 
and Sons of Veterans, and has served three terms as captain 
ol the latter. He is also a charter member of both Lew Wal- 
lace Camp No. 32, of Nokomis, and Joe Hooker Camp No. 
(18, of EHingham, Department of Illinois, >S. of \'. He receiv- 
ed the high compliment of Lew Wallace Camp by being elec- 
ted captain one term. 'I'he same oompliment was paid him 
by Joe Hooker Camp, here he was elected two terms. 



20 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




GEORGE ENGELMAN'8 GROCERY STORE. 

T|N EVERY SMALL CITY there is always one firm deser- 
*1 vine of pre-eiuineiice over its less eiierjretle coiniietitiirs 
anil by strict aiiliereiice to apt business metliods bear the 
palm alone. Nokoinis is no exception to tliis rule. If there 
is a house in tlie city that is worthy of bearing the palm it is 

the one owned bv Mr. George 
George Engelman, En.eelman. One'thins is eer- 
GrOCer. '*'" 'f^Pr^ is no mercantile 

house in Nokomis of more di- 
rect importance from a commercial point of view than this 
one. .\s a merchant he leads the van. He is a hustler for 
business and is ji^elting^ it. He believes in mod- 
ern modes of transacting business, and to ac- 
complish this result, has equipped his store with 
such poods as are in daily demand by both home 
and country people. It has always been the 
policy of tliis house to sell a good article and to 
avoid handlin<r inferior groods. This store is ex- 
cee<1inff|y attractive in appearance. The sjoods 
are all new, fresli, clean and brijrht; and immense 
stock well displayed, consistinjr of all the higher 
and better grades of staple and fancy groceries, 
fine teas, coffees, relistiesand table luxuries. His 
store is 80x80 feet, giving him a floor space of 2400 
square feet. Mr. Engelman carries everything 
pertaining to the grocery line. The standard 
preparations in tlie food lines are kept in stock 
and elertness iu buying facilities are very popu- 
lar. He tias one of the largest and best displayed 
stock of groceries with an increasing trade that 
astonishes all competitors; all of which goes to 
show what a man of energy, nerve and inilustry 
is capable of doing. .Another feature is the pur- 
chase of country produce of all kinds, thus mak- 
ing this a most popular store amonj^st the farm- 
ing portion of the surrounding community. His 



nicely arranged stock evidences good taste and his accom- 
modating ways adds much to the popularity of the house. 

Mr. Engelman was born in Madison county, Illinois, 
April 23, 1870, and received liis education iu the school of Il- 
linois. He was a farmer early in life, and is still the owner 
of a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, two miles north- 
east of Nokomis. Three years ago he entered into the gro- 
cery business. Mr. Engelman is a thorough and progressive 
business man and we predict for him a success that isn't 
often equalled in this line of business. Personally he is one 
of the most genial gentlemen you could wish to meet, and 
one in whom implicit confidence may be reposed. 

Tit OC'ATED IN I'HE new Law building on State street is 
jLff is the watch and jewelry store owned and conducted 
by S. M. Strain, a young man of sterling character and bus- 
iness qualifications. .Mr. Strain was born and raised in Nok- 
omis, being the second son of Dr. H. S. Strain, an old and 

highly respected citizen. 

S. M. Strain, He acquired his early 

Jeweler and Optician, education in the Nokomis 

public schools, and b i s 
first business training was received in the general store of 
S. Denman. Mr. Strain entered the jewelry store of George 
Sippell on January 1, 1896, as an apprentice, where he spent 
four years in preparing himself to correctly diagnose and re- 
pair sick watches. His first position was with J. J. Johnson, 
at Pittsfield, Illinois, where he spent five weeks in the study 
of the escapement of a watch and the theoretical and practi- 
cal working of the watch in general. Montpelier, Indiana, 
was the next town in which he accepted a position, taking 
charge of the large store of J. E. VVu'ersten for six months, 
while that gentleman made an extensive visit in the east. 
Jlr. R. L. Hight, of Tuscola, Illinois, then secured the ser- 
vices of Mr. Strain, at which place he remained eight 
months, then concluding that working for others was not 
the best for him, he decided to try fi)r himself; accordingly, 
he put. a work bench in the hardware store of H. C. Latham, 
at Irving, Illinois. His work being entirely satisfactory, 
Mr. Strain soon found that he would prosper and added a 
small stock of jewelry, enlarging it gradually until he soon 




FORMER RESIDENCE OF DR. W. C. HOVEY. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



21 




S. M. STRAIN. 

found it necessary to get into larger quarters, and moved in- 
to Ihe postotfice building:. After sixteen montlis prosperous 
business in Irvinsf, Bunker Hill was tried, but tliis move 
proved a bad one, and he came to Nokomis and opened up 
l)is present handsome store, with his brother, Paul, as liis 
partner. The store was conducted under tlie name of S. M. 
Strain & Bro., until November], 1902, when tlie present 
name was atlopted. 

Mr. Strain makes a specialty of watclies, tlie liigh grade 
Illinois being: his leader, and he recommends them as the 
most accurate time piece procural)le. His specialty in cases 
is tlie Wadsworth the strongest case and tlie one tliat af- 
fords the surest protection to the movement. In tiis repair 
work lie is very thorough and particular. During liis ap- 
prenticesliip and business career he lias won tlie confidence 
of the people and has established a large iiiid well pleaseil 
clientage. As an optician lie has proved eminently success- 
ful and many persons releived of eye strain and headaches 
by his perfect adjustment of lenses to the requirements of the 
eye. are standing advertisements for him. 

In this watch and jewelry store are to be found, at all 
times, the largest line of the latest production in tlie jewel- 
ers' art. An immense line of watches, clocks, silverware and 
jewelry, a most complete repair department; in fact every- 
thing necessary to make up a first-class watch and jewelry 
store can be found here. With modest and unassuming 
grace you are received wlieu you enter this store. 

S. IM. Strain is a member of Sherman Lcxige No 332, I. 
(). O. K., of which lodge he is the perniaiient secretary, and 
he is also a member of Dewey Council, M. P. L , and was, 
during its existence, captain of Lew Wallace ("aiup Sons of 
Veterans. He is also a menilier of the First Presbyterian 
church anil a member of the choir. Holiert Anderson Jr., a 
pleasant and agreeable young man assists Mr. Strain in liis 
business. This store is extensively ad vertised and is fast 
gaining favor with the people, as a place where honesty is 
placed above all else. 

|0 BUSINESS CAN stand still. It must either progress 
or recede, for the current of events keep moving on, so 
it is in the affairs of trade, and the firm that desires to ad- 
vance must embody in its niMiiagenient the characteristics 
of enterprise. There is in all avenues of trade, some business 
which bears the stamp of the proprietors, and which through 
a period of success has attained meritorious celebrity. The 
above emphasises clearly and fully our opinion of two of the 
leading business men of Nokomis. We refer to the firm of 
Slianuon & Best, who have one of the finest and best kept 



general stores of this city. There is an attracliveappearance 

about the interior of the 

Shannon & Best, store that proves an in- 
General Merchandise. Jucement to the prospect- 
ive buyer. The groceries 
handled are the best and purest that can be purchased. 
They consist of fine teas, delicious coffees, various brands of 
the best grades of flour, canne<l goods of every kind, fresh 
vegetables, pickles, lemons, oranges and bananas. 'I'he con- 
fectionery department is complete with the best lirands that 
can be obtained. The cigar, tobacco and pipe department is 
all that can be asked. They have a decidedly Hue line of 
both foreign and domestic cigars and tobaccos. They also 
keep a tine line of shoes for men, women and children of any 
size, shape or price. And last but not least, a line of dry gooils, 
hosiery and notions. 

Tlie senior member of this firm, William H. Shannon, is 
a native of Toronto, Canada, and was born A pril 24, 18C0. 
He receiveil his early education in his native Cdunt ry. He 
is a licenseil enibalmer and a mailuate of Professor Clark's 
School of Embalming. He was married to .M iss .A una Car- 
stens, of Nokomis, in 1898. Mr. .shannon is appreciated gen- 
erally as an honorable man and vahieil citizen to the cum- 
munity. 

The junior partner, .Mr. Kred C. Best, was born in Madi- 
son county, Illinois, on January 27, 1861. He received his 
education in his native state. On .April 26, 18')3, he marrieil 
Miss Elizai)etli I'arllow, of Culpepper county, N'iigiida. 
'I'hey are tlie parents of one child, a liriglit little girl nf nine 
years, who is pelted ami loved by all who know her. 

Jlr. Best is an active memberof the Presbyterian church 



w 





FRED. C. BEST. 



22 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



ami belongs to the Odil Fellows. M. W. A. and K. A. of A. 
He is one of tbe most bigbly respected citizens of Nukomis. 

^jli^HIS 8T0RE STANDS in the front ranks of the lea<linsr 
41 enterprises in the city. The firm does an e.xlensive 
nndertaking husiness an<l there are few houses in Southern 
1 llinois that are better equipped for eralialniinirand couduct- 
infr funerals. I'hey have a fine uinlertaker's wa^ron an<l one 

of the finest fun- 

Shannon & Best, erai cars in Mont- 

Undertakers & Embalmers. -"'""' '"" " ' ' ' 

also a grave tent 
fi>r ilie protection of friends of the deceased. The_v have one 
iif the larxe«l ami best displays of coffins and caskets in 
cloth, metallic imd wooden, ranging in all sizes and qualities 
and are arrangeil so as to be quickly and easily shown. One 




WILLIAM H. SHANNON. 

of the great invenllons of the aire an<l one tliat saves a great 
deal of annoyance, einbaraSMiient and inconvenience is 
found ill this establii^hiuent. It is what is known as the 
^teel exiension cliurch truck, rubber tired . whirli eiit irely 
di-'penses with llie crowding of pallbearers Ctriyiiig the re- 
nniins Ihi-oiigb doors and small hallways; it also answers 
more fully the purpose of a tiier at the home or in front of 
the churcli altar .Anotlier invention which belongs to this 
business, and one which goes toward disuelling the idea 
Mat many persons are buried alive, is ttie automatic lower- 
ing ilevicc by which the coffln is lowered into the grave 
without the possibility of the remains being disarranged or 



turned to one side. This machine dispenses entirely with 
the old time use of ropes and straps, 

Mr. Shannon, who has charse of the undertaking de- 
partment, is a graduate of Professor Clark's School of Em- 
balming. Also holds a certificate from the Illinois State 
Board of Health as a licensed embalmer. 

JiljRHE PRACTK^E of law requires more talent and a more 
H extensive knowledge than au^- other business or pro- 
fession, and be who would win fame in its ranks must have 
special training, and make up his mind to continuous study 
and unceasing toil. To the man who possessess tlie gift to 

steadily work his way 
William Q. Webster, ahead in the legal profes- 
CitV Attorney slon, surmounting tbe ob- 

stacles which always face 
success much credit should be given, and the subject of our 
sketch, Hon. William G. Webster, City Attorney, has dis- 
played those attributes and qualifications wljicli mean a con- 
tinually growing clientage and successful practice. He was 
l)orn at Shelbyville, Indiana, and graduated from Lincoln, 
University. After- 
wards he t a u g li t 
school a n d t h e n 
stiKlied law at Mich- 
igan University. He 
was married to Miss 
.Mary .Mitchell, a t 
IJncolii, Illinois, in 
1881. Soon after- 
wards be moved to 
Mulvane, Kansas, 
where he had a tine 
law practice for 
years. On account 
of health he came to 
Xokoinis, where he 
has lived for thir- 
teen .v e a r s . He 
has one son, Oeorire, 
who w a s recently 
married to Miss 
Maud Scott, ilangh- 
ter of .lames Scott, 
one o f t li e m o s t 
IH'omineiit and hii^h- 
ly respected fanners 

of the county; and a daughter, Esther, who is still a school 
girl and well educated in both English and (German. 

Mr. Webster organized the city under the state law, is 
the author of tbe revised ordinances, and has been alder- 
man, mayor, ami assistant states' attorney and city attor- 
ney, both here and in Kansas, having been repeatedly elec- 
ted by good majorities, all of which positions he has tilled 
with credit to himself and constituents. He was cliairmau 
of tbe committee that organized and built tbe efficient water 
works system of this city. He is a member of the A. F. & 
A.M. In politics he is a republican and has always faith- 
fully done his part of the campaign work. By his own exer- 
tions and sterling character he has become a leader among 
the successful men of Nokomis, and is (uie of those fortunate 
men who carries himself with the air of a msin whose affairs 
have been successful. Personally he is decidedly intellect- 
ual, a good conversationalist, an eloquent speaker and a gen- 
ial gentleman with whom it is a pleasure to be acquainted. 
He is one of the men who has indelibly stamped his indivi- 
duality upon the progress and prosperity- of Nokomis. 




WILLIAM G. WEBSTER. 



CO 

H 

> 








to 

UJ 

a: 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



23 



i^jlNE OF THE most remarkable evidences of tbe prosper- 
*af ity which has been prevailing for several years in the 
United States is found in the wonderful development of the 
fire iusurauee business. The annual statement of the great 
insurauce coiupauies show that they have enjoyed an unusual 
share of the general prosperity. 
AlsOn F. Weaver, so great and decisive has been 

I _-,__„- their growth that this emphasizes 

the fact that the fire insurance is 
attaining greater popularity than it ever enjoyed before. 
This condition applies as strictly to Nokomis as it does to any 
other part of this ffreat country, and no one reaps a greater 
harvest from this source than the gentleman whose name 
appears irt the caption of this article, one of the oldest and 
most reliable firms of the city. 

Mr. Alson K. Weaver who for the last twelve years has 
devoted his time and energy towards building up of a repu- 
table and lucrative fire and tornado insurance business. He 
represenas nothing but the best companies, therefore his 
risks are of the best. Mr. Weaver represents the following 
tire and tornado companies : 




ALSON F. WEAVER. 



Aetna of Hartford Connecticut Capifal,|4,000,000 

Fire Association of Philadelphia " 2 000,000 

Under Writers Agency of New York " 6,000,000 

Phenix of Brooklyn New York " 3,000.000 

Phoeni.\ of Hartford Connecticut " 3,000,000 

Niagaraof New York " 2 000,000 

Springfield Fire and Marine of Mass " 2,000,000 

Mr. Weaver does not have to rush arouinl a great deal 
for his business, his long establishment in fire insurauce, hia 
personal and favorable acc|uaintance with nearly every free 
bolder in Montgomery county reduces to a minimum the 
part of solicitor. Yet, he docs not forget the printer nor the 



fact that it is tlie duty of every business man to keep his 
business prominently before the people at all times. His 
offices are located on the second tloor of the Nokomie Na^ 
tional liank building, rooms 1 and 2. 

Mr. Weaver was born in Madison county, Illinois, Sep- 
tember 8th, 1888. and received his primary education in the 
common schools of that county, soon after entering the Wes- 
leyan University of Delaware, Ohio, and graduated In class 
1861. On .January 25th, 18ti6, he was married at Zanesville, 
Ohio, to Miss .Martha .\. Dunn of that city. Their union has 
been blessed by eight children, five sons and three daugh- 
ters, two of the sons dying in infancy. Their eldest daugh- 
ter is the wife of Mr. U. W.tJhurchill of Chicago, Misses 
Winnie and Hettieare both charming and highly accomplish- 
ed young ladies and are with their parents. The eldest son 
Dunn W. is in the auilitor's office of the great (Chicago mer- 
chant Marsliall Field & Co., F^arl W. is attending the Com- 
mercial College at Decatur, Illinois, and Harry, the youngest, 
is at home with his parents. 

Mr. Weaver is one of the leaiilng citizens of Nokomia and 
Montgomery County, and has held positions of honor and 
trust. He was for eighteen years a member of the school 
board, supervisor of the town, township clerk, highway 
commissioner, and member board of directors of the Nokomia 
National liank. He is a member of the A. F. and A. M. and 
Lodge 456, a member of Post No. 236 G. A. U Department of 
Illinois and is now serving his third term as post com- 
mander. 

August 0th, 1862 less than a year after leavhig college, 
INIr. Weaver enlisted as a private in the lITtli IJegiment Illi- 
nois Volunteer Infantry, and was at once promoted to the 3rd 
Sergeant, and served in that position until mustered out at 
.Springfield, Illinois August 9th, 1865, making full three 
years to a day. Few men had a wider scope of army e.\peri- 
euce than had Mr. Weaver, he not only paitlci|iated in 
numerous l)attles detached service, special duty, an<l other 
positions that brought him more or le.ss iji contact with the 
officers of his command, giving him information and knowl- 
edge which the ordinary non-comps was seldom blessed 
with. On one occasion while in battle, his company being 
left without a commissioned officer, he took command and 
brought the company out with flying colors. He was with 
General Banks on the celebrated lied Hiver expedition, one 
of the most hazardous and trying campaigns of the war 
while it lasted, little more than seventy days; si.\ty-si.\ 
days of that time the command was under fire. 

After being mustered out Mr. Weaver returned to his 
home near Edwardsvllle, Illinois, later going to Zanesville, 
Ohio, wliere he was nuirried, as above stated. He tried 
farming on the old honjestead In Madison county, Illinois, 
and in 1868 moved to Montgomery county, IllinoLs, and 
farmed for several years and in 1880 moveit to the town of 
Nokomis, wliere he soon became one of the leading organ- 
izers. While some of his business ventures have not been 
as successful as were anticipated in the beginning, yet few 
men have succeede<l in gathering around them so great a 
quantity of the world's goods as Mr. Weaver. Four hun- 
dred acres of Illinois rich alluvial soil besides si.xty acres 
within the corporate limits of the city of Nokomis upon 
which stands his hamisome residence, surrounded by every 
beauty, convenience and comfort that the heart could 
desire. 

Mr. Weaver is a gentleman of most agreeable manners, 
easy to approach, pleasant and afTalde, yet there is in his 
nniinier a dignified appearance that commands respect and 
forbids familiarity. To these qualities of heait anil heart 
much is due to his high standing socially and the great 
esteeiu in which lie is held by all who know liim. 



24 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



TjT IS PI^KASANT to do business with a tliorougb reliable 
H, man. One in whom you can plaice absolute contiilence, 
anil as such we can cheerfully reconimend witliin named 
gentleman. He is one who is not fl^liting for tlie almiglity 
dollar alone, but is seeking tlie barmouious interests of the 

citizens of his city and coun- 
Oltmann Brakenhoff, ty. and being a man of good 
Mptrhflnf judsrment, knows that dollars 

and cents and credit don't 
n)akeall the capital the people of a city put into business, 
but the willingness of all hands to pull together for the com- 
mon good, is of itself capital. And as above remarked there 
are none who more clearly recognize these facts than O. 
HrakenholT, dealer in general merchandise. 

In the grocery line we find everything fresh and pure. 
'I'he cainied goods are unexcelled, and they have tlie best 



and other articles both beautiful and serviceable. lu the 
shoe (tepartment we find shoes for men, women and children, 
both black and tan, and prices to suit any one. A shoe to lit 
any foot and a price to suit any purse ia the maxim of this 
establishment. 

The proprietor of tliis enterprising place of business, Mr. 
O. Hrakenhoff, is a native of Nord-Georgs-Kehn, a small 
village near the city of Leer, Germany, and was born August 
9th, 18.58. He was educated in his native country and at tlie 
age of fourteen he became a sailor, signing with a trading 
vessel and for seven years he plowed the deep and briny 
ocean, visiting during that time almost every known part of 
the world. 

At the end of this service he enlisted in the German navy 
serving three full .years as required by the army and navy 
regulations of his country. 




RESIDENCE OF OLT 

gra<les of flour of various kinds at lowest prices, and many 
new kiinls of foods which are put up in boxes ready for use, 
such as I'ostum, Korce ami Malta Vita. The cigars and to- 
baccos are such as would delight a king. Tlie candy depart- 
ment is always stocked with the best and the chewing gum, 
oranges and bananas are delicious. They have a large sup- 
ply of garilen seeds, etc. We next turn our attention to the 
dry goods department, which consists of calicos, ginghams, 
muslins, waist goods, heavy goods for dresses, and in fact 
everylliiiig that could be expected in this line. 'I'he line of 
notions consists of pins, brooches, fancy collars, laces, dress 
trimmings, fine handkercliiefs, fancy pillows and lieail rests 



MANN BRAKENHOFF. Photo by Whittlesey. 

In the fall of 1882 he emigrated with his father and 
family to America. Krom Baltimore, Maryland, they came 
direct to Nokomis, where he has since resided. His father, 
Mr. Harm Hrakenlioff, died on his farm two miles west of 
Nokomis, in the fall of 1901, at the advanced age of seventy- 
five years. .Si.\teen years ago he opened a saloon in this 
city which he still conducts. Three years ago he embarked 
in the mercantile business on State, between Spruce and 
Pine streets. This store has proved a great success. Tlie 
store has a floor space of 1800 square feet. 

On November 29. 1886, he was united in marriage to 
Miss Anna Brakenhotr. To this union has been born tliree 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



children. The eUlest, Miss TeKa, a handsome girl jn.st 
buddin;? into womanhood, lias Jnst closed her second .year in 
the Hisfh School, while Miss Jiierina has just entered the 
High School. Miss Josephine, the youngest, is still in the 
Public School. 

^|INCE 1889. El.NVIN K. M.VLl.OUY has been a valued 
^j resident of tliis city, with the exception of one year 
spent in .lerseyville, this stale. He has seen Nokomis grow 




ELWIN E. MALLORY. 

and expand from the little village of fifteen years ago to the 
well built city of today. Culture an<l retlnement have suc- 
ceeded the rude though well 
Elwin E. Mallory. meant hospitality which 

characterizeil all settlements 
in this section at an early day, and the tendency along both 
l)usiness and social lines have lieen for the better. .Mr. 
Mallory has not only been an observer of this change but 
has taken an active part in the advancement. He has lield 
various positions of honor ami trust, such as promotes the 
general welfare of a community. 

Horn and reared on a farm in ('hantau'|ua county. New 
York, and educated in the connnon schools of his county, he 
grew to manhood's estate in the peaceful an<l blissful avoca- 
tion of farmer's boy, which he continued for seven years alter 
beginning life for himself. The following eight years found 
him a diligent and trusted employe of a sewing machine 
comiiany ol Dunkirk, New York. 

Believing thai lie could better his condition financially 
in the far west, he resigned his position with the .sewing 



machine company and March 1st, 1ks4, found him in Fre- 
donia, Kansas, where he remaineil for live years; he then 
returned east as far as this city, where he located, securing 
a clerkship in the hardware house of (irillin Kros., wii^re he 
remained for seven and one-half years. He then accepted a 
position in Jerseyville, Illinois, where he remaineil for one 
year, and then returned to Nokomis, accepting a position 
with the hardware house of (i. H Spannagel & Co., where 
he is still to be found, tlie favorite clerk of this large 
establishment. 

Mr Mallory was born in {,'hautau(|ua county, New York, 
on September 14, lM.51, and in that state receiveil his eiluca- 
tion and was married to Miss Lillis Dye of (Jherry Creek, 
New York, ,luly 2, 18G9. They have three children, all 
living. The youngest, Jessie, now the wife of Thomas (,'ard 
of this city, Krnest K. a soldier in the hospital corps of tlie 
U. S. army, stationed at Kort Hayrd New Mexico, and Her- 
man K. a printer by trade, liiil at present a U. S. mail carrier 
on a rural delivery route out of Ibis city. 

Mr Mallory has held several political oHices his first 
lieing constable in 1878-7!) and deputy sberilf in the same 
years, in his lionie county in New York, collector of Nokomis 
township in 1893, and at present city councilman. He is a 
member of the Methodist church ami Nokomis Lodge No. 
4.5() .\. K. anri A. M.. Silver Cross No. -'37 K. I'., M. \V. .\. 
and M. P. L. 

He has been honored with every chair in almost every 
order to whicli he belongs, and at present a delegate to tlie 
State Camp of the M. W, A. 

Mr. .Mallory made a most commendable race for post- 
master of the Nokomis postoftice a little over four years ago; 
while he did not succeed, he certainly made many strong 
friends for the strong fight he put up. 

Mr. Mallory is a geirtleman wlio moves In the liest social 
circles of the city and is considered oire r)f the most progres- 
sive meir of the city. Kind and irenerous to a f'airit, in fad a 
highly esteemed gentleman by all who krrow him. 

|t*OI{ CENTURIKS PASI' the burlier has been one of the 
_£* great factors of man. There is nothing that So tlior- 
oirghly chairges a man's appearance for the belter, so re- 
freshes, SO cools, so invigorates and cleanses as a hall hour 
under the care of a gooil barber. Cleanlirress is next toCiod- 

liness, and no one is so well 
William M. Jayne, prepared to do this work as the 

TonSOrial Artist. '«"'•«"■• And few are so well 

prepared as the gentleman 
whose name heads the caption of this article, 

Mr. Jayne, as a barber, is the peer of Montgomery county, 
haviirg had nirre years' experience as a "boss" barlier. His 
l)arl"rs are located one door east of Nokomis National Kaiik, 
are elegantly eijuippi'il with four of the latest improved 
chairs, tlire mirrors, keen razors, clean towels ami the best 
workmen in the county, while the sanilai'y conditions are 
unsurpasseil, arrd the bath rooms are equally as wejl fur- 
uisheil with nice, white and clean bath tubs, hot and colil 
wafer. Irr fact, every lionvenience and comfort that can he 
procured for the comfort of his patnuis; every appliance 
kirowii to the trade is at h;iird for satisfactory ami rapid 
coirduct of this business. Here the weary farmer is made to 
feel the blessings of a cool and refreshing bath ami the dusty 
traveler is rofresheil. .Another redeeming feature of this 
house is that it is kept free of the loalirrg elenrent which so 
frequently abstracts from flie popularily of an up-to-dafe 
parlor. His parlors are well ventilated, large windows 
furnish an abundance of sunshine and light during the day 



26 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




WILLIAM M. JAYNE. 

ami numerous iiicandeseent lights dispel the darkiiess 
of ihe niiiht. Four competent polite anil nent appealing 
assistants are always ready to attend to the wants of 
cusloiuers. 

Mr. .Jayne was born In Shelby county, Illinois, 
May 30, 1S66. He was married to Miss Mary (.'able of 
Oconee, Illinois, on March 28, 1889. He is an active mem- 
ber of Hie Haptist church and of the M. W. A., and K. F. 
lodges. 

You will find Mr. .layiie a pleasant, polite and affable 
gentleman, a citizeH recognized for his lionorable dealing 
wilh his fellow man, for the Christian influence that he 
yrelds, his progressive ideas and public spirit ready an<l 
willing at any time to invest a dollar that will help his 
neighbor or his city. 

Don't forget the place, first door east of Nokomis Na- 
tional Hank. 



"W^HE I-0(Ar> HA11,H()AI) AGENT is frequently of much 
H. greater importance in a community than the casual 
observer wouUI generally suppose. A great many people do 
not stop to think that in the great striites of progress made 
liy the railroads in the past decade or two conditions have 

forced them to establish rigid 
Samuel R. Hudnall. rules governing the appolnt- 

ineiit or employing any man 
in a seini-ollicial position with their vast systems. 

So the agent for so important a point as Nokomis is care- 
fully selected. Many things are considered; his general 
knowledge of railroading in all its various departments, his 
competency, his reliability, and even Ids private character; 
:;ll these things are carefully noted and investigated, and 
without hi.s knowledge or consent. 

'I'he agent being a sound, sober business man, is soon in 
the gooit graces of the merchant and business men generally, 
and t.hereby becomes a prime factor iu the building up of the 



town of which he is tlie railroad representative. He has 
facilities for making known to the various enterprises and 
to capital the advantages and resources of the city he repre- 
sents, and through his efforts can make his town a great 
sliipping point for the farmers and manufacturers. 

Nokomis feels very grateful to the C., ("., C. & St. L. 
Railwa.v for having placed such an agent as above described 
at this station in the person of Mr. Samuel R. Hudnall, a 
gentleman highly respected by all of Nokomis, sociall.v, as a 
business man, and as a local representative of one of tiie 
largest railway systeiiis east of the Mississippi. 

Mr. fiudnall began railroading eighteen years ago with 
the (;., C, C. & St. E. Kail way and during this long period 
has served this one company alone faithfully. Beginning as 
an operator, he rapidly rose to that of agent at Ohlman, 
transferred to Rosamond, from there to Rethalto, and when 
the new and handsome passenger depot of Nokomis was 
dedicated on the 22d of October, 1902, he was placed in charge 
as agent. And we are proud to say that no better selection, 
so far as tlie people of Nokomis are concerned, could have 
been ma.-te. Mr. Hudnall has proved himself thoroughly 
competent for his new duties, pleasant and accommodating, 
strictly business, but in such a manner as never offends. 

Mr. Hudnall was born in Leaksville, North ("aroliua, 
October 24, 1859, and soon after emigrated with his parents 
to Illinois, where he received liis education. He was married 
to Miss Minnie Grubhs of Hillshoro, Illinois, October 18, 1887. 
Their union has been blessed by five daughters, one of which 
died in infancy; the other four are in school. Mr. Hudnall 
is a member of the Methodist church, I. O. O. K. and 
M. \V. A. 

He is one of tlie most attentive and painstaking agents 
of this line and takes great pride in keeping clean and tidy 
his elegant offices and waiting rooms. 




SAMUEL R. HUDNALL. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



^HftHE " BIG FOUR ROUTIi: " comprises 2500 miles of the 
41 most perfect railway in tliis coinilry. Tlie roadways 
noted for smootli riding', are of sticti perfect construction as 
permits the heavy vestibuled trains witli their ponderous 
locomotives to be run at great speed and with the utmost 

safely. The history 

A Great Railway System, ofti.eroad begins in 

1847 when tlie first 
roa<i in the state of Indiana was completed from .Madison to 
Indianapolis. In 18.52 a branch was completed from Indi- 
anapolis to Union City where it eonnecteil with another road 
which had been constructed to (;ieveland. Within a very 
few years the road made other connections and rapiilly grew 
in size and importance. In 1859 the road was consolidated 
with the Ohio line and in 1868 with a line running from 
Cleveland to Cincinnati, anci became known as the " Bee 
Line." 

In 1853 a road was opened from Indianapolis to l.aw- 
renceburg and in 1854 was exlcndetl to Cincinnati anil began 
doiusr a large business. In 1856 a charter was granted for a 



The Big Four connects at St. Louis, I'eoria ami Chicaso 
witli ail the great lines from tlie west and northwest, at 
Louisville ami Cincinnal i with lines from tlie south, south- 
east and southwest and :it Cleveland with railroads from all 
eastern points. 

'I"he Big Konr has unequaled through service from St. 
Louis and ( 'incimiati to New York and Kostoii, and is known 
for its Inxurioii.s and cinnfortable e(|uipmeiit. The " Knicker- 
bocker S|)ecial," "New Ymk and Boston Limited," ".South- 
western Limite<l," "The Wliite Cit> .■Special" and "The 
K.xposjtion Klyer" are palaces on wlieels. drawn by some of 
the most powerful locomotives in llieworlil. These mag- 
nificent trains, consist log of slanil.ird and compartment 
i'lillman sleeping curs, library cars, chair cars, iliiiing cars 
and coaches, are all lighted by gas and heated by steam, 
and the in(;onvenicnces of travel are rediiceil lo a minimum. 
The improvements in the road-beds have kept rven pace 
with those in the rolling slock. The dining cars are owm-d 
and operateil by the company and are magiiilicent (iriipiir- 
tions and appointments. 




C. C, C. & ST. L. (BIG FOUR) DEPOT. 



road from Indianapolis to Lafayette and in 1866 this road 
was consolidated with tlie Indianapolis and Cincinnati road 
and .Mr. M. K. Ingalls was appointed president. 

The beginning of his administration marks a distinct 
era in the history of the road. Connectious were formed 
giving an entry into St. Louis and Chicago; new rails and 
equipment were purchased and the road soon becaiue known 
as one of the great systems. In 1890 the" Bee Line" con- 
solidated with the Big Four and the new combination took 
the latter name. Immediately afterwards the Wabash and 
Michigan was taken in giving an entry lo Benton Harbor 
and Louisville. Shortly afterwards the L, B. & W., reacli- 
ing to Peoria on the west ami Sandusky on the east, was 
made a part of the new system Thus, within a compaia- 
tivel.v few years this great system, touching all principal 
points iu Oliio, Indiana and Illinois has beeu built up. 



^Ll) MKTHODS, old things, even old songs, are pas'^ing 
away; customs so popular in eailydays Miccumb to 
the fads of the moment. Steam is barely hobliiig its nwii 
against the ai-h lev emeu ts of the aire of marvelous elect ricity. 
Klectric motors and electric powers have diivHn the horse 

from the field of labor; the 
Andrew J. Eekhoff. old lumbering coach has 

tailed lielore the on-rushlng 
steam (!iir. Modern ideas have displaced the ancient: and 
log lints are no longer lit for embryo presidents to be born 
in. Old men have been relegated to oldivion by younger 
men of more progress! ve Ideas. .And he whose iiaine heads 
the caption of t bis article is one of tlie lomnost of llie bit ter 
class. 

Mr. .\ndrew Kekhotl' is manager of llif lirancb house in 
this city for the Nelson Morris & Company of Chicago, 



28 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



Illinois, and is a "reiitlenian known tliroug:hout this section 
of tlie state. He began life for himself as a "printer's devil" 
in the latter part of ]889, in the joint oflices of the Nokorais 
Free I'ress-Gazette and Deutsch Amerikaner with Hulberl 
& WiJd as proprietors. He remained with the office for six 




ANDREW J. EEKHOFF. 

years, working in both the English and German depart- 
ments. He then deci<led logo to (.'hieago, secure a position 
and attenil the Cliicairi) Business College during the even- 
ing session. His first position there was on the ("hieago 
Legal News. Later he went with the Blakely job office, he 
having a natural ability for this kind of work. Alter two 
years lie completed his course in the business colleireand 
returneil to Nokumis where he took cliarge of the Nokoinis 
Progress, a weekly and democratic organ of this city. Tliis 
position he retained foi' over a year when lie resigned to take 
charge of the Pana Daily (Jazette, which he edited lor two 
years, covering the period of the celebrated coal strike of 
that place. During this strike his paper was the cliampion 
of the strikers. It was liis writings and advice through the 
columns of his paper tliat had mucli to do with tlie lessening 
of crime (hiring this fearful strike among tl)e more turl)Ulent 
element. 

At this time his liealtii began to fail rapidly and lie wa.s 
compelled to resign, but soon after accepted a position with 
tlie mercantile house of Wollinaiin & (.'ompaiiy. which he 
retained for two years, when he accepted the position of 
manager for the Arthur Jiirdan (.'oinpany of Indianapolis, 
Iniliana, which he still retains, although the house has 
recently changed hands and is now the Nelson IMorris Com- 
pany of Chicago, Illinois. 

Mr. Andrew .1. Kekhoff was born in Nokomis. Illinois, 
August 28, 1874. He received his primary education in the 
graded schools in this city and is a graduate of the Chicago 
Business College. He studied German under Professor 
Wessell of Concordia fSemiiiary, ^Jpringfield, Illinois, and 
grailualed in the class of 1889. He is a member of the Ger- 
man Lutheran church. He is an ardent young democrat 
and Would iiiKloubtedly make an ideal politician, having in 



his favor a commanding figure, good looks, and an all 'round 
good mixer with mankind. 

Hut trade seems to be his stronghold. He is a hustler 
for his house, a reliable man, a man who never sleeps, is 
ever on the go, the man to whom bicycles and railways are 
slow modes of transportation. In fact is an all around busi- 
ness man and an iudefatigable worker; he never finds time 
to be sick during business hours, and probably covers more 
ground in the many diflerent directions where business calls 
him than any other man in Nokomis. 

^i|»HE DIKKERENT BUSINESS ENTERPRISES which 
41 go toward maintaining and prospering a thriving 
commercial center like Nokomis requires a far greater 
amount of knowledge, experience and skill in their separate 
lines than would at a passing thought be conceived. The 

hanker would doubtless make as 
Thomas Ridler. glaring a failure of the dry goods 

business as the dry goods man 
would of buying and selling of fine horses, and so ou. With 
the rapid strides of modernism the public has been educated 
to expect tlie best, and nothing but the best will satisfy. 

Probably no man in southern Illiuois is a finer judge of 
horse flesh than our worthy townsman Mr. Thomas Ridler, 
who has been engaged exclusively in the buying and selling 
of fine horses for the past twenty-five years. He has in his 
employ a recognized expert in this line in the person of Mr. 
.lohn Lee, who looks after the Nokomis business during 
Mr. Ridler's frequent absence in looking up and buying 
stock elsewhere. The buying and selling of horses has not 
only been a life business with him, but a life study as well, 




THOMAS RIDLER. 

learning and profiting in the schools of dear experience, until 
today he recognizes no superior in the art of selecting the 
best animals on foot. He is an extensive buyer on orders 
for such firms as Mook & Weil of Cincinnati, Ohio, and 
(."randall & Company of Buffalo, New York. He has oue of 



THE NOKO.MIS PROGRESS SOQV^ENIR SUFPr.EMENT. 



2it 



flie l)est equipped barns in tlie country, containinir lilliO 
s< 111 a re feet, a nan "red witli all modern con venienue fortius 
speoial business and wliicli is only equaled in tlie markets of 
the lar>;er elties. 

The lirst horse liuyers' barn built in Nokomis was built 
t)y Xinis & Uidler twenty years ago and still stands on tlie 
corner of Kront and Pine streets. Mr. Ridler is one of the 
best known horse men in bis line in the state, and is equally 
as well known in the good stock sections of Iowa, Missouri, 
Indiana and Kentucky. 

iMr. Ridler was born in Gloucestershire, England, .lann- 
ary 20th, 1851'. He received his education in bis native 
country and came to America in ISO!), at the age of seven r.eeii 
years; his first stop was in Missouri. In 1870 be came to 
NoUomis and since that time has made this cit.y his home. 

On the 17th day of .lune, 1873, he and Miss Alice 
Newcomer were joined in wedlock by Samuel Strider, a 
justice of I he peace of this city. Tliey have been blessed by 
six children, two sons and three danghlers, but the grim 
hand of death claimed one of the sons at the aire of eleven 
years and one of the daughters at the age of twenty-two 
years. Charles M., the ehlest son, is now a traveling nnm 
out of Des Moines, Iowa. Miss Nellie, now Mrs. Bryce, is a 
resident of this city, Miss Katie, a beautiful and accomplished 
young lad.v of nineteen summers is at home with her parents. 

Mr. Ridler has served the city one term as councilman 
and twelve years as a member of the school Iward. He is a 
member of the A. K. and A. M , K. I', and M. W. A. 

Mrs. Ridler was born in Harrislmrg, I'ennsy 1 vani.i, but 
reared in Nokomis. It is to her that the writer is indebted 
for much of the valuable data ami incidents that occnirred 
in the early days of Nokomis, as will.be seen in the history 
of this city, in this work. 

Mr. Ridler should be an inspiiation to every ycjung man. 
He is ruggedly ami conscientiously just. He was never 
known to do an act or speak a word for the sake of " politiy." 
He is true to every obligation, ami devotedly loyal in his 
friendship. His works are practical, and being practical 
are successful. 




GEORGE F. CASTEEL, 
AGENT C. C , C. «■ ST L RAILWAY, GAYS. ILLINOIS. 



JROGRESS IS AN KX( ELLENT WATCH WORD. It 
denotes so many things — ambition, desire to please and 
energy. A business built on sucli a foundation is bound to 
grow and thrive, for it cannot help it. In the retail grocery 
business, mure than any other, perhaps, daintiness and 

cleanliiress have 
Samuel J. Elam, more and greater 

Groceries and Restaurant "'""«■"''' "P"" i"«- 

sible customers I ban 
anytbinir else, but when to those is added progress us de- 
lined above, and a complete anil well selected stock fuch as 
is carried l)y the above named gentleman, the coinbinution 
is irresislable. 

The stock is large, varied, clean fresh and since the 
commencement of his trade his prices have always been 
reasonable and an article has never been misrepresented, 
ami as a natural result a customer once, has become a cus- 
tomer always. 

In addition to the grocery line, this establishment has 
an elegant restaurant. Everything is lirighl ami clean, and 
Ibeicecieam parlors are a mosc delightful accompaniment 
to the salesroom. Delicious cold diinks are served. They 
manufacture and carry a large line of cakes and l)read. Il is 
here you will timi the choicest and freshest bonbons, cream 
Candies and chocolates. 

When .vou enter this eslaldishment you are promptly 
ami courteously waited upon by one of the failhlul and 
pleasant assistants, who delight in serving the customers in 
the most cheerlul manner. 

Mr. Samuel .1. I'llam, tlie proprietor of this establish- 
ment, was born in lliinil coiinly, Illinois, November lit 1«(52. 

He was married to Miss Eliza Snow on May l', IHSIi. He 
has been in the grocery business for about two years, and 
previous to this was a farmer. 

He is a memlier of the A. I'', and .A. .M. (iillham Lodge 
No. 8(»(), anil is recognized as an enleiprising and thrifty 
gentleinan, who is always reaily to help a friend. 

OEORGE KREDEIUCK CAS'IEEI- was born September 
.^^ 6, 1871, at Arcadia, Iron (.'oiinty, Missouri, and edu- 
cated ill the Ursuline convent of that place. 

In 1885, at the age of thirteen years, he was given the 
position of messenger boy in the Western I'liion and W.ik (). 
rail way oflices at Columbus, Kentucky, and there studied 
teleiiraphy under the chief operator ol the M. & O. railway 
during his spare moments. 

In May, lK8(i, he went to St. i.ouis with the .M . »V (). rail- 
way. Krom there he was sent to .\lto I'ass, where be 
remained for a few months, when he was ofFered and accepteil 
a better position and salary with the .Missouri I'acitic rail- 
way. Here he remained, vvitli the e.\ception of a few months, 
for nine years. In 18ilfi he accepted a position with the C..C., 
C. it St. E. rail way as agent .-ind postmaster at l.ake \'iew, 
and has been with that road since, at the )ireseiit time lieing 
their agent at Gays, Illinois. 

.Mr. Casteel was man ieil to .Miss I'na l.ois Spencer at 
.\rkadelpbia, Arkansas, October 1', IsitL'. They have been 
blessed li.v three children, two sons and u daughter. The 
eldest son died in infancy. 

Mr. (Jasleel has freiiuently been complimented by his 
siijieriors for his neat penmanship, clean, neat ami accurate 
reports. He is a member of the .Methoilist Episcopal cliiirch 
and the Epw'orth League, of which he is treasurer of his 
lo(;al order. He is a young man who makes friends wherever 
he may be, quiet in manner, polite and gent leiuMiily to ull 
with whom he comes in contact and will evcnlually make 
his mark in railroad circles. 



30 



THE XOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




G. H. SPANNAGEL. 

IN THIS KNTERPIUSING AGK tlie comlitioii uii<ler 
wliicli a thriving business luust be coiiducled differs 
materially from tlnise whiuli prevailed ten, or even five, vears 
ajro. I'nrcliasers have ceased to trade with meichants from 
personal frienUshi|i or because tbeir falbers ilid before them. 

PuichaseiB are 

Spannagel siud.vinjr econ- 

Hardwareand Furniture Co. o"..v and not only 

demand reliable, 
tasty jrooils from which to make tlieir selections, but also 
keep a walc-bful eye on prices, (ioods and prices now draw 
patrons as they never did before. It is these conditions 
which have led us to the department store of G H. 
Spannajrel. 

To place in chargeof the leading departments a salesman 
who shows a special aptitude for handling certain lines of 
goods, is one of the itleas used by .Spannagel Hardware and 
Kurniture conipany, w bich lias met with unanimous public 
favor. These deparlment heads are furnished with all the 
necessary assistants and are held responsible for their par- 
ticular pait of the slore. Devoting most of tbeir time to 
single lines, they gain unusual funiiliurity with the goods 
bandied, gaining intelligent information which they give to 
cnstomeis. Such clerks are called " specialists." The force 
of salespeople in tliis store are competent and obliging- at all 
times and are always ready to please. In all, there are 
eleven employes in the store. 

Tlie spot cash system owes its existence to the demand 
for lower prices and serves the real interest of both proprie- 
tors and patrons. It is the policy of this company inflexibly 
adiicred to. Under the credit system those who did pay 
settled for all. You don't belp pay bud bills wheie every 



one pays cash — there are none. Cash customers in a credit 
store should demand a discount; it is given ever^'where, 
even in England. Buying for cash enables the proprietor to 
secure a great advantage at the factories or wholesale 
houses. Helling for cash permits them to turn their money 
rapidly and make several profits during the year. The one 
idea in the conduct of this house seems to be to furnish a 
reliable trading place for the people where they cau buy 
everything at a uniformly small per cent over the cost iu 
large quantities. These are the motives which make the 
management of Spannagel Hardware and Kurniture com- 
pany's store. 

The history of this business since its inception iu 1887 
has been one of constant growth, which resulted solely from 
the demand of patrons. Established February 8, 188."), by 
Gustave R. Spannagel. In 1887 his son Gustave H. became a 
full pjirtner in the house whicli was so conducted until 1891, 
when G. H. bought bis father's interest which he conducted 
until .April 1.1898, when it was incorporated as a stock company 
under the firm name of The Spannagel Hardware and Fur- 
niture company, witli the following officers: Gustave H. 
Spannagel, president; Gustave R. Spannagel. treasurer, and 
Williani H. Shannon, secretary. On January 1, 1901, Mr. 
Shannon withdrew and the following officers were elected: 
Gustave H. Spannagel, president; .\lbert Spaunagel, treas- 
urer, and ('harles H. Kerr, secretary. 

Tills is the largest niercantileestablishment iu Nokomis, 
one in which not a single article is missing in any of its 
various departments. The hardvvare department is replete, 
carrying everything that it is possiiile for the trade to call 
for. All the leading brands are carried in every line. For 
instance, in the stove depaitment may be found the Radiant 
Home, the leailer otal'l hard coal burners of the west, wliile 
in the soft coul burneis Estate Oak, Superior Air Tight, Cole's 
hot blast— all the leaders. Then iu the cooking stoves are 
to be found the Malleable steel range, Superior, and others. 

The furnitnie department once seen is never to be for- 
gotten. There is nothing made of wood for use or comfort or 
ornament l>ut what is found heie, so it is useless to itemize — 
it's all there. 




ALBERT SPANNAGEL. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



31 



III the carpet, rug and mattinsr line they are unexcelleil, 
carrying one of tlie largest stocks, as well as the most varied 
grade, of any house in Nokoiuis. Tlieir specialty is samples 
and cut orders. Here the most fastidious housewife cannot 
he only satisfied , but pleased. 

They carry a full line of sewing muchines. all of the best 
makes as well a.s the clioapesl and most popular brands. 
Also equipments and appliances, needles, oil, bands, etc. 

The sewing machine ilepartiuent is in charge of E.E. 
Mallory, who has had more than twenty years' experience 
as a practical repairer and salesman, having servetl two 
years in a sewing machine factory in New York, and had 
charge of all the sewing machines as well as the other ma- 
chinery for one and a half years in Dunkirk, New York, and 
he is considered the most practical all around sewing ma- 
chine man in I his part of Illinois. 



and a<ljoining towns and the company fuels quite proud to 
be able to compete, with confldence, with the larger cities in 
this class of work. 

In the paint department you will find the reliable K. P. 
S. Huujmer and otiier leading brands, white lead, varnisliea, 
oils, lirushes, etc. 

The vehicle department of this house has no e<|ual in this 
territory when it comes to selecting for its durability a 
buggy, phaeton, carriage, surrey, stanhope, bike wagon, 
driving wagon, road or spring was!on, or contHird wagon. 
'I'liere is nothing equal to the Hex Huggy company of t'on- 
nersville, Iniliana, from whicb place all tnis stock comes and 
which is tlie only company that buihls all its vehicles from 
tlie ground up, every piece of wood, iron and trimming 
passing tliroiigh the bands of competent and rigid inspectors, 
and built under the scrutiny of the most exacting foremeil. 




SPANNAGEL & COMPANY'S HARDWARE AND FURNITURE STORE. 



In the tinware department they have a large and well 
equipped tin shop, wliere not only repairs but new work is 
being constantly turned out. 

Tliey also carry all tlie popular brands and makes of 
farm implements and machinery, such as reapers, binders, 
mowers, etc. They also make a specialty of wire fenciug, 
poultry netting and barbed wire. 

Pumps, large and small, all makes, windmills of all sizes 
and various makes, all of the most popular branils and 
modern patterns. Do not buy a pump or windmill without 
seeing this stock. 

As foreman of the galvanized Iron department they have 
Mr. George Schutt, a mechanic of rare ability, whose work 
is known in this and other states to be perfect, and executed 
with artistic taste. Much of his work is to he seen in this 



This is the kind of stock that the >Spaniiagel Hardware and 
Furniture company carries. Therefore, you are never swin- 
dled or disHulistied afterwards. 

The wholesale and retail seed department is the largest 
single departinent connected willi the bouse. They do a 
general jobbing business in all kinds of seeds, but make a 
specialty of grass seeds, such as clover, timothy and millet. 

The building up of this branch of the business on the 
part of Mr G. H. .spunnagel took months of pat ience, study 
ami hard work. People would insist on patronizing the 
wliolesale houses of the larger cities for their seeds, but 
things are imw reversed, and Mr. iSpannagel is supplying 
many wholesale dealers of the larger cities, as well as all the 
princi|)al towns of this territory, which embraces a large 
number of counties. In fact, the trade in this line has in- 



32 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



creased to such an extent that it ha8 really become a busi- 
ness within itself. Tlie cause is easily explaine<l, the seeds 
he sells are superior to all otliers in quality ami cleanliness, 
they are guaranteed ag-ainst all foreign matter of every kind, 
besides they are adapted to the soil and climate, as they are 
home grown. 

The Hpannagel Hardware and furniture company con- 
duct with their large store an undertaking establishment, 
Mr. G. H. Spannagel having charge of tliat department he 
being a licenseil embalmer by the Illinois state board of 
health. His education and training in this line makes him 
thoroughly proficient in the duties of an undertaker and 
embalmer. Wo. with a n)an so competent at the helm of a 
business so completely equipped with all the modern con- 
veniences, it is no wonder that Mils firm has attained tlie 



educated in that city, graduating from the Smitiis Academy 
and afterwards from Washington University in the class of 
]87S. Ten years later, in 1888, he was married to Miss Belle 
Middlecotf. of this city. They now have two manly little 
sons to bless their union. 

Mr. Spannagel is too busy a man to be a seeker of office, 
but he is a great believer in social orders and is a member of 
the I. O. O. F.. K. P., M. VV. A., M. P. L., C. of H. and 
A. O. U. W. 

Mr. iSpannagel is a man of rare executive ability, won- 
<lerful energy and a tireless worker. He is well known 
throughout this part of the state as a man who possesses a 
full measure of those attributes which insures success, 
possesseil of a pleasinsr personality, wliich makes life-long 
friends, energetic in whatever work falls to his liands. His 




RESIDENCE OF G. 

foremost position it now holds in the undertaking profession 
in Nokoruis. 

The firm lias two line hearses and keep on hand a large 
stock of coffins, caskets and burial cases of all sizes, burial 
shrouds, etc. 

We have used the limit of our space and are sorry that 
we must cease eiiiimerating before we have scarcely t)egun. 

One can reatlily see that an iinniense building is required 
for this large stock, The main building of this establish- 
ment has a floor space of 14,848 r((iiare feet which comprises 
two large store rooms adjoining, including se(;ond floor. 

This company has a branch house at Witt, four miles 
west of this city, where a splendid stock is carried, not large, 
but all lines represented. Mr. .lohn Wear is in charge at 
that place. 

Mr. (iiistave H. Spannagel. the senior member of this 
lirm was born in St. Louis, Missouri, November 30, 1863, and 



H. 8PANNAQEL. Photo by Whittlesey 

success in business has never engendered a feeling of envy, 
but has always held the regards and contitlence of the busi- 
ness community. 

A Ibert Spannagel, the treasurer of this mammoth con- 
cern, was born in St. Louis, Mo., .lanuary l'7, 1871. He 
received his education in that city and is a graduate of the 
Bryant and Stratton Business College. He and Miss Lillian 
Kerr of this city were Joined in we<lloek .lime 30, 1897, and 
are now the hapi)y parents of two beautiful little girls. 

Mr. Spannagel is a member of the K. of P., A. K. and .\. 
M., and R. A, M. Chapter No. 237, and M. P. L. He began 
life in his father's store, but in 18iKi branched out for himself 
in the farm implement business in this city, which he suc- 
cessfully conducted until 1898, when he became a member of 
the above company and was made its treasurer in Febru- 
ary 1900. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



S3 



Mr. Spannasrel is a well known man of bu8ine88 who has 
gained in intliiential and wide spread patronage through liis 
honorable metliods in dealing witli the public ; lie is a public 
spirited gentleman, genial and pleasant with all. 

Mr. Charles Kerr, secretary of this company, was born 
in tliis city August 10, 1K74. He is theson of Alfred D. Kerr, 
one of the old and highly respected merchants of this city. 
Mr. Charles Kerr began life as a newspaper boy, later on 
becoming the agent for various daily papers. In this line 
he built up a large and lucrative business. Mr. Spannagel, 
who is ever on the watch for good men, offered Mr. Kerr a 
position in the store. He had no trou))le in disposing of his 
newspaper business, so was soon installed as a clerk in the 
above house. By close attention to business industry and 
close economy he not only saved money, but ingratiated 
himself into the favors of his superiors, and when the firm 
was changed to a stock company Mr. Kerr proceeded to 
invest his savings in stock. Later on. or in 1901, when Mr. 
Shannon, the secretary, retired from the company, Mr. Kerr 
was promptly promoted to the secretaryship. 

Mr. Kerr is a young man highly esteemed by all who 
know him as an honorable, conscientious young man, and 
one who is sure to make his way in the world. Although as 
yet enjoying single blessedness he has taken the precaution 
to prepare a cage for a mate, in the event of a change of 
mind, in shape of a handsome and commodious residence on 
Union street. 

jLrCK, EXRRGY AND ENTERPRI.SE, a knowledge of 
the people's wants and showing the people that you 
can supply those wants will surely bring success to any 
business venture. A notable instance of this is that of E. C. 
Drennan, the owner of the Bargain Store. We cannot 
pretend to itemize this great bazar, 
E. C. Drennan but win single out a tew of the 
Rfir<rain Store numerous departments. The cloth- 
* ing department consists of men's 

pants, overalls, jackets, shirts and ready-to-wear suits for 





R. C. WHITTLESEY. 



THE PHOTOGRAPHER. 



SKETCH ON PAGE 19. 



E. C. DRENNAN. 



boys, hats and caps of all sizes, and gloves for rougti labor or 
for Sunday. 

When in need of tinware there is no more complete line 
carried in Nokiimis than al the Kargain .'^tore. Krom a pie 
tin to a wash tub. It is not tlii>< cheap tinware that you 
sometimes see, but is good heavy tinware at reduced prices. 
The porcelain ware is also handled — pans, kettles, buckets, 
in fact everything. The wooden ware department is stocked 
with buckets, tubs, wash boards, butter bowls, butter prints 
and ladles. 

A good line of heavy and shelf hardware — saws, axes, 
nuts, bolts, screws: also carpenters' tools, planes, hannners, 
rules, tape lines and chalk. Table and pocket cutlery are 
to be found in abundance here; knives and forks, scissors, 
wire screens, etc. 

We next turn our attention to the wall paper <lepartment 
which is une.\celled for (juality and beauty; the paper is all 
trimmed for the purchasers, thus saving them a great deal 
of annoyance and delay. In window shades we find an 
excellent grade of any color, size or price. 

In the line of notions we find everything complete — |)ins, 
needles, perfumes, handkerchiefs, bed drapery, towels and 
other things too numerous to mention. 

This establishment is also headquarters for pianos and 
organs, and musical instruments of all kinds. The instru- 
ments are sold for cash or on the insiallment plan. 

Mr. E. (;. Drennan, the proprietcu- of this enterprising 
establishment, was born at Woodburn, Illinois. He received 
hiseducalion in his native state, and on Kebruary 3. 1879, 
was married to Miss Hattle l.antermann of Madison county, 
Illiniiis. To this union has been born three daughters, Miss 
Lizzie, a beautiful and accomplished young lady of seventeen 
summers, who is stenographer and ty|>ewrlter tn the author 
of tills work, and Miss Clara, ten years and Miss Jennie, six 
years of age. 



34 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




JOHN H. CRIOKENBERGER. 

TiftOR THE BHNKKIT OK OUU READERS who do not 
•{£" understaiid I be process of this simple, yet wonderful, 
industry, this article is written. (Since the orfranization of 
the above named plant the arrowtli lias been rapid and sub- 
stantial. Mr. John H. Criekenberger, president, and Mr. 

\V. H. ("asgellierrv. 

The Nokomis Electric Light vice-president a n .1 

and Power Plant treasurer, are men of 

jrreat ability and 
rugged determination, and are ever in the van of progress. 
They are men who understanil that business must either 
progress or recede, for as the current of events keeps moving 
on, so it is in the affairs of trade, and the tirm that desires 
to advance must embody in its management the character of 
enterprise. .Xiid as an establishment of the higliest stand- 
ard, this enterprise is worthy of more than sjiecial mention. 
It stands in the front ranks among tlie leading connnercial 
enterprises of tiie citv, and is in every seuse of the word a 
metropolitan concern, reflecting credit not only upon the 
proprietors, but also upon the general commercial interests 
of tlie city. 

It is ((uite safe to say that the progress made in elec- 
tricity witliin the past decade or two has been far greater 
than that in any other imlustry. It is now the cheapest and 
most reliable means of lighting; it is many fold greater than 
that of any other illumination, while the cost is reduced to 
about one lialf. 

It was througli the courtesy of the above named gentle- 
men that the writer was coixhicted tlirongh tiiis awe 
inspiring plant, for such it is, not knowing where to touch, 
when to touch or wliat to touch. It is the only institution 
lliat tlie writer knows of where visitors do not meddle; it is 
the only spot on earth where a "smart alec" does not exhibit 
himself. 



This plant was organized November .SO, 1894, and char- 
tered under the laws of the state of Illinois, with a capital 
of $10,000, the officers at that time consisting of George Bliss, 
president, A. J. Williford, vice-president, J. H. Padock, 
secretary and George Scbaper, treasurer. 

The present owners are .John H. Criekenberger, presi- 
dent, \V. H. Casselberry, vice-president and treasurer, and 
8. B. Brown, secretary. 

The plant proper is 40x80 feet, or 3200 square feet. Their 
engine is a 100 horse power, made by C'huse & Co. of Mattoon, 
Illinois. A battery of two boilers, one a 12.5 horse power 
Erie, Pennsylvania, make and oue a 100 horse power Erie 
City. Pennsylvania. 

They have two National alternating dynamos of Eau 
Clair, Wisconsin, make. One dynamo has a capacity of 
tliirteen hundreii sixteen candle power lamps, the other a 
capacity of six hundred sixteen candle power lamps. Also 
a series of arc lighting system with a capacity of thirty' lights 
of two hundred candle power each. They now have twenty- 
tivearc lights and fifteen hundred incandescent lights in the 
city, with fourteen miles of wire. 

Messrs. Criekenberger and {.'asselberry are well known 
throughout this section of the country as men of sterling 
character and business aliilit^-. 

Mr. John H. Criekenberger was born at Staunton, Vir- 
ginia, January 20.1852. He was married to Miss Laura Wells 
September 8, 1881, in this citi". He is a member of the 
Methodist church, also of the I. O. O. P. He is owner ot one 
of the l)est farms in this section, consisting of two hundred 
and thirty-two acres, all nicely improved with two hundred 
acres in meadow. 

Mr. (^rickenberjfer is a thorough gentleman, a loyal 
friend and an untiring worker in whatever he undertakes; 




W. H. CASSELBERRY. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



35 



and enjoys not only the acquaintance, confidence and warm 
friendship of the comnierclal element of this section, but 
commands the esteem and respect of all who know him. 

Mr. W. H. Casselberry was born in St. Clair county, 
Illinois, October 12, 1860. He was married to Miss Rosella 
Gray of this city on August. 26, 1886, and are now the proud 



the city, with all the latest and most modern improvements. 
He resided there until about two years a^o wlicii he liouxht 
an interest in the above named business. Ainonir Nokomis 
business men none possess a fuller share of the peoples' 
conf]ileuce than does Mr. Casselberry. He has been con- 
nected with the electric light plant for the past two 




CENTRAL STATION OF THE NOKOMIS ELECTRIC LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY. 



parents of four daujrhters. Mr. Casselberry is an active 
member in the Baptist church, the I. O. O. F. and M. W. A. 
and Noble Grand of the Nokomis Odd Fellow lodge an<l 
director of the Nokomis National Bank. He owns a large 
and well improved farm just outside the western limits of 



years. Although something of an anuiteiir at the beginning, 
he has acquired a keen understanding and power of 
critical discriinlnalion in everything pertuiniiig to his plant. 
As a cUizeii, a business man and a friend none stand 
higher. 



36 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




GARRELT BRAKENHOFF. 

3\NE OK THK HKST appoiiitetl dry goods stores in No- 
■/y komisisj. VVoltiimnii & Co.'s. Beiiiif persistent iid ■ 
vertisers, Wnlcnian & Co. Iiave built up an enoniioiis liiisi- 
ne«s. Kvery day is Saturday at lliis store, and the puhlic of 
Nokoinis and vicinity have recognized the (hM that every 

day is bargain day there also. 
J. Woltman & Co. a crilleal buyer, .Mr. WOltmann 

Mercantile House. »i^vays succeeds in getting the 

cream of the market and at 
figures which enable him to give to their customers the 
benefit of the discounts obtained by purchasing in large 
quantities and at opportune times. .A t this eslablisliment 
full value is reeeiveil ami the most courteous treatment 
accorded non-buyers as well as buyers. In ad- 
dition to the dry goods depaitment proper there 
is an annex In which are displayed an unusually 
fine line of carpets— Wiltons, .Axminsters, Hrus- 
sels, Velvet— all in the latest and handsomest 
designs. The carpet department has proven a 
success, for the policy that gives life and strengtli 
ami character to tiie rest of this modern establish- 
ment is also in force here. It is tlie experience of 
every business man that customers are won. not 
only l)y excellence of gooils and low prices. Iiut 
also by uniform courtesy to non-buyers. The 
latter is certain to be in neeiJ of something some 
time and they will naturally bestow their patron- 
age on the merchant who has treated tliem with 
consideration and not as a hold-up man, ready to 
take their money at the first opportunity and 
inilifTerent as to whether they ever come again or 
not. Woltman & Co. is a houseliold word to 
liundretis in and around Nokotnis, and the fact 
that an article comes from this establisliiuent is 
sutTlcient proof, in)t only of its excellence, but of 
tlie buyers' judgment in securing good goods. 

In addition to the dry goods department, is 
111 be found a flue line of groceries, both staple 



and fancy; slielf and heavy hardware: wall paper of the 
very latest designs, and notions of all description. 

(Country produce is taken in exchange for goods bought 
at this store and the highest maiket prices are paid. 

The display at this establishment is proviiig a revelation 
to our people. From the staiidi>oint of an artist it is ideal; 
it is metropolitan in magnitude and, as usual, the question 
is: "How can they sell at such low prices?"' The store is 
always crowded, but as in the street cars, "there is always 
room for one more." The children find it beautiful, and 
carry away many happy memories of a glorious vision of 
goods in bewildering array. 

Wlien you go to Woltmann & (,'o 's <lon't forget to take 
the cliildren. They are always welcome. 

.•\ biographical sketch of the senior member of tliis firm 
— Mayor .John Woltmann — will l)e found in another article 
of this book, page 13, under the caption of Nokomis' mayor. 

Mr. Garrelt Brakenbiift', the junior memlier of this firiu, 
was born in Mt. Olive, Macoupin county, Illinois, Jaimary 
10, I8t>3. and is the son of Henry HrakenhofT", who was born 
in Ostfriesland, Germany, May 5, 1831, and emigrated to 
America in ISol. In 18.54 he married Miss Henrietta Catsten 
of A Iton, Illinois. 

.Mr. Garrelt Rrakenhotf became a member of this firm 
before he had attained his twenty-second birthday ami, like 
his partner, Mr. Woltmann, is well and favorably known 
throughout the county. He was married to Miss l-ncy 
Essman of Kland, Missouri, in 1888. They have one daugti- 
ter, Edna .M., aged 18, who is still in school. 

Mr. Krakenhoff is a memlier of the German Metliodist 
church. He has served one term as township collector. Ho 
is a well known man of business, who has gained an influ- 
ential anil wide spread patronage through his honorable 
method in dealing with the public, and is recognized as one 
of tlie successful merchants of the county. 

.). Woltmann &(;o. are the lea<ling agents of .Southern 
Illinois for the following steamship lines— the North Ger- 
man Lloyd, Haiuburg .American Line, Red Star Line, Amer- 
ican Line and Dominion Line. For the past year their busi- 
ness with the 'Norddeutcher Lloyd" has lieen something 
astonishing. In fact they seem to sell two-thirds of the 
steamship tickets sold in Southern Illinois, besides this line 
is so thoroughly equipped and so well known among the 
German travelers (hat none other are considered. 




RESIDENCE OF GARRELT BRAKENHOFF. 



00 

D 



00 
0) 



o 

X 

■n 
•n 





Q 
O 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




RESIDENCE OF JOHN WOLTMANN. 



IN ALL WALKS OF LIFK the self made man deserves, 
and generally receives, the plaudits of the world. The 
struggles of early life naturally constitute such men to grap- 
ple with the stern realities of every day life duties. To such 
men obstacles are naught, and in the le.xicon of their aims 



Robert L. Anderson, 

Horses and Mules. 

and endeavors there is 
no such word as fail. 
It is sucli men that 
maintain the commer- 
cial supremacy of 
A merica, aud when 
they enter official life 
their services are ren- 
dered in the same ener- 
getic and reliable man- 
ner. These remarks are 
particularly applicable 
to the .luliject of our 
sketch, Mr. Roliert L. 
Anderson, who needs 
no introduction to the 
people of Montgomery 
county. He comes of 
one of the best families 
of l\entucky, and start- 
ed out in life as a 






m«. 




SAIL b I ABLE OF R. L. ANDERSON. 



general dealer in stock and has made the buying and selling 
of horses and mules his only vocation. His constant buying 
of the best stock to be found on the great stock farms of 
Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Indiana and Kentucky has made 
hlDi an excellent judge. He is a native of that great state so 

I I noted for her Hne horses 

.;■";■ '.■■'.■-' '. goo<l whiskey, hand- 

some women and game 
men, all of which he is 
a good judge and a 
recogni/.ed authority, 
e.xcept on the whiskey 
question, he being a 
total abstainer, and we 
believe the only one 
Kentucky ever pro- 
duced. He sold the first 
car load of horses in the 
National stock yards of 
KasI St. Louis. He is 
well known and popu- 
lar with all stock deal- 
els in SI. Louis, Chi- 
cago, IhdiHiiapolis and 
other points. Mr. An- 
derson was born in 
Allen County, Ken- 
tucky, April Zi, 1864, 
and received Ills early 



38 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



e<liieatioii in his native stitte. He was married to Miss Nancy 
K. Williams ou April 19, 1878, of Tennessee. He is the fatlier 
of two children. His oldest child, Roherl , is a handsome and 
popular youno; man of eighteen years, who is at present a 
clerk in the jewelry estahlishment of S. .M. (Strain. His 
younjfesl chihl, Mii^s Lulu, is a hiifhly esteemed young: lady. 
Ky her pleasant manner she has won for herself many 
friends, and hy iinlustrious stmly has almost ^rained the top 
round of the ladder in her school work. Mr. .^mlerson is the 
owner of a larg-e livery stahle, which lias a floor space of .3500 
square feet, and is at present leased to Mindrup & Oiler, 
and is known as one of the hest liveries in the city. Mr. 
Anderson has his office in this buildinsr, hut spends most of 
his time on the outside. He lias heeii in Xokomis in business 
for seventeen years, and twenty-Mve years at other points. 
Besides his hiisiness interests he is an active menjher in the 
A. K. and A. M., I. O. O. K., M. W. A. ami K. P., and has 
also held the office of assessor twice, and is at present deputy 
sheriff of Montgomery county. .As a citizen he is public 
spirited, in<lustrious and honoral)le; as a man of business he 
is prof>ressive, thrifty an<l enero:elic; and as a husbainl and 
fatlier he is kind, considerate and {renerous. His friends are 
lejrioii, his enemies are lew, ami he is jfenerous in aiding 
those will) are not so fortunate as himself. 

JHK CAREKU OK A HUSfNESS enterprise is the rule 
and standard by which the public tests its capacity 
and weneral worth. When the progress of a hnsiness has 
been uniformly and steadily inereasinjr under able manatre- 
ment, jroinj; on to further prosperity with time, it necessarily 

imparts confidence and 
Frederick J. Pannwitt, attracts from far ami 

near. Such is the busi- 
ness of .Mr. Kiederick ,). Pannwitt. who eighteen years ago 
tlirew open I he doors of liis present business to the public. 
Mr. Pannwitt has bul few peers as a mechanic, and there is 
probably not a farmer in .Montgomery county who does not 
know of Pannwitt's blacksmith and woo<lwork shop. 

Mr. Pannwitt, having an eye to business, tias equipped 
his shop witli every known facility to tfie trade His shop 
is large and commodious, having ti floor space of ,36114 square 
feet, and fitted with a 
modern gasolineengine 
of three horse power, 
power hammer, power 
drill, polishing machine 
et(!., while in tlie bUick- 
smithinu' and wood de- 
partment only the best, 
most modern tools and 
ideas are used. He car- 
ries an extensive stock 
of iioii and wood. 

The Pannwitt vehi- 
cles are sold on their 
merits. 'J'heir g o od 
qualities are known in 
the entire county. 
First -class materials, 
good workmanship, 
graceful designs, a ii d 
e.xipiisite finish were 
the factors that contri- 
buted to their popular- 
ity. The price of course 
was a material coiisid- 



HeSIDENCE OF FREDERIC J. PANNWITT. 



eration, but tlie maker had no ditflculty in getting what he 
deemed a fair compensaiioii. Krom long experience in the 
vehicle business, from years of comparison with what other 
makers were doing, from assiilious endeavors towards a still 
higher development, Mr. Pannwitt's knowleilge of the vehi- 
cle situation was full and complete. He made a price and 
<lid not deviate (me cent from it, and the intelligent buyer 
knew it also. Many of the best wagons in tliis vicinitv are 
the products of the I'anii witt shops, and they advertise tlieiu- 
selves hy their (furability and pleasing appearance. Mecli- 
aiiism is displayed upon all liis work and and is excelled hy 
none. While his iron, woodwork and paint are all of the 
inosl superior material, every piece of wood and iron pass a 
close examination before being used. 

He also makes a speciaiti' of repair work, and many are 
the tumble-down, travel-worn vehicles, which under the 
skillful hands of his competent workmen have been ma<le 
even equal to new. He is recognized as an expert In the re- 
pair of farm machinery and farm implements; while few 
men know so well how to shoe a horse as Mr. Pannwitt — his 
work fits well and are put on to stay, while he thoroughly 
understands and knows how to remedy defects of the hoof. 
In fact, to a farming community, no more useful man can be 
found than Mr. Pannwitt. 

Mr. Frederick J. Pannwitt was born in Mecklenburg, 
Germany, August 31, 18fiO, and came to America with his 
parents in 1805, at the age of five years. The family went 
direct to Chicairo, where they remained for one year; from 
there to a farm in Effingham county. Here the subject 
of our sketch received the major part of his education. 

At the ago of eighteen he started life for himself, 
going to Gasconade county, Missouri. Here he served 
three years in a blacksmith shop as an apprentice. Natural 
ingenuity and close application made him muster of his 
trade at the end of his apprenticeship. 

In 1882 he came to Nokomis and entered the employ 
of Mr. .1. I.,. Freasier, where he remained until .January 1, 
1885. He tlieii bought out Mr. Freasier and has since 
that date conducted the business in his own name. In 
February, 1885. he was marrieil to Miss .Margaret Kssmann, 
of Bland. Missouri. They are now blessed by two children, 
one son, K win, 10, and one daughter Florence L., 7 years of age, 
both in school. Mr. Pannwitt is a member of the German Meth- 

o<list church, ami is 
also one of the trustees 
ami Sumlay School 
superintendent. 

His wife, .Mrs. ]Mar- 
garet P a n n w i t t , is 
recognized hy all to 
be one of the most 
pleasant and kind 
hearted matrons of our 
city. 

They reside in one of 
the handsomest and 
most convenient resi- 
dences in the city. 

Mr. Pannwitt is wide- 
ly known for his enter- 
prise and general busi- 
ness ability, and ex- 
hibits in his character 
the traits of honest 
integrity and sterling 
worth, which haveever 
distinguished the con- 
duct ot his life. 





■^ . '' ''VHdBSSBBi 


1^ ■ ■ ■■ 


WSJ 




^sSi 


^^^^^^^^^H iHim 


^ '.>. 'dH- Ut-- - ii 't..- . 




wP! 





THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



•M 



FROM THK INCEPTION of this general write-up we 
have iutetided to devote coiisiilerahle space to some of 
the oldest and most respected residents and men of business 
interests, but among so man^' gootl business men we find it 
more than difficult to select one with any degree of justice. 

However, the name that strikes us 
John J FsrnCr most forceful at present as one of 

the legitimate merchants, a man of 
HSiTLSiSit' . true integrity of purpose, excellent 

business qualilications, noted for 
his honest and upright dealings with bis fellowmen, is our 
worthy townsman, John J. Karner, located just across the 
street north of the public square. His store has a floor 
space of 2250 square feet. He buys his goods wlierever the 
best and cheapest can be had for cash, always in large quan- 
tities. He pays spot cash and sells for cash. Therefore it is 
easj' to see how he can and does sell cheaper than the cheap- 
est. He carries a select line of men's and boys' perfect flt- 
ting suits tailor-made, not sweatshop and auction goods. 
This is the right place to go for the little fellow's first suit, 
from head to foot. Sizes three years and up, nice clean goods 
at reasonable prices. Hats, caps, gloves, and suspenders, 
always the latest novelties in neckwear, a full line of ladies' 
and gent's furnishings. Ironclad hosiery, underwear, buggy 
whips, wall paper, window shades, jewelry, clocks, specta- 
cles, a full line of warranted pocket knives, razors, all kinds 
of dishes, chamber sets, a complete line of granileware and 
tinware and the latest in sad irons, dustpans and corn pop- 
pers. Oil cans with which you can fill your lamps in the 
dark, without dansrer of running over. Don't fail to ask to 
see all these specialties. Pictures and frames out-class any- 
thing found outside of the large cities, only the prices are 
less. A large line of fancy Indian baskets, consisting of 
sewing, trinket and waste baskets; dress shirts, work shirts, 
all-wool flannel shirts, overalls and pants warranted against 
defects and ripping. A large assortment to select from. 



Notions, ribbons, purses, novelties of all kinds suitable 
for birthday and wedding presents, uniiirellas, trunks, va- 
lises and corsets. 




JOHN J. FARNER. 

He also carries a line of toilet articles, and remedies that 
will cuie the sick, sold under guarantee to give satisfaction, 
and ihe one positive cure for catarrh and failinif eyesighl , 
and that will restore hearin^r. 

He carries a line of .shoes suitable for all tastes and 




STORE AND RESIDENCE OF JOHN J. FARNES. 



40 



THE XOKO.MIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



purposes that are guaranteed to give satisfaction and sold at 
prices to suit your raone.v. A trial will convince you. 

Also iill grades oC rubbers; in fact, you can get every- 
thing' needed in a family except ilress goods and groceries, 
and he says he is planing to add these two lines, after which 
he intends to be able to supply all your needs. 

Mr. Karner was born in Switzerland May 22, 1844, landed 
in Highland, Illinois, in 18-54, and a year later move<l to 
Alton, Illinois. In ISfiO, he moved with his parents to Prairie 
Tow'n, where he learned the blacksmith trade. He was 
never an otflce seeker, but soon after he became a voter he 
was elected constable, which office he resigned rather than 
sell out a piH>r man's effects for debt. Aflerwanls he filled 
the office of assessor for a couple of terms. In 1877 he landed 
at his present location in Nokomis and conducted a black- 
smithing and implement house up to about 1889. 

Giving that business up he started up his general mer- 
chandising business. His success has been phenomenal in 
this line, which is unc|uestionably due to his good business 
(jualitications, executive ability and fair, honest and upright 
dealings with his feilowinan. 

Mr. Farner is the father of five children. Miss Louise, 
the eldest, is a stenographer in St. Louis, Jacob, aged 19, is 
a railroad clerk in East .St. Louis, Miss Carrie, a handsome 
young lady of 17 summers, is just out of school. Miss Lillian, 
aged 15, is a pupil of the high school, and Frederick, aged 
12 years, is in school. 



e5[jr*HE RE.\I., EST.ATEand Loan business is represented 
41 in Nokomis by .Mr. Alf Griffin, au illustration of whose 
residence we show here. 

Mr. Griffin has lived in Nokomis for the past twenty- 
seven years and is well and favorably known to tlie people 
of .Montgomery county. Coming to Nokomis from Morgan 
county, Illinois, in 1876, he entered the Nokomis National 
bank as bookkeeper, was afterward elected and served as 
cashier, resigning in October, 1885, to engage in the hard- 
ware and furniture 
Alf Griffin, business of Griffin 

Real Estate and Loans. Hroti.ers. During the 

last five years Mr. Grif- 
tin has devoted his entire attention to his present business 
and has met with deserved success. He buys and sells real 
estate of all kin<ls, negotiates mortgage and other loans, and 
does an insurance, abstract and collection business. He has 
had extended experience in all these lines, and besides 
rendering competent, careful and prompt attention to the 
wants of his clients, he offers moral integrity and financial 
responsibility he being the largest personal taxpayer in the 
township. 

The interior of his i)fflce is one of the nicest in the city. 
Everything artistically arranged, with modern furniture 
and all the convenianees of a modern office. It is located in 
his own building at No. 126 West State street. 

Mr. (iriffln resides with his family (wife and two daugh- 
ters) in one of the most handsome residences in the City, 
soutii of the city park. 




RESIDENCE OF ALF GRIFFIN. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



41 



jmrjHK THRIVING CITY OK NOKOMIS enjoys the ilis- 
ji tinctioD (>r having located iu the most prominent busi- 
ness section a first-class modern equipped drug store, and a 
visitor cannot help but observe the complete arrangements 
which are necessary to au enterprising business of this Icind. 

This store is owned and conducted 

George Schaper, by Mr. George Sehaper, one of the 

DrU^irist. oldest registered pharmacists in the 

county. Twenty-seven years ago 
be began the compounding of medicines and every day more 
or less of his time ever since has been devoted to his profes- 
sion and his thonsands of patrons all testify to his careful- 
ness, liberality and fairness in all his business transactions, 
both iu buying and selling. 

His store is a model of neatness and cleanliness; shelving, 
counters and show cases being resplendent with bottled 
chemicals, drugs and proprietary medicines; also a line of 
the finest whiskies and wines for medicinal purposes. There 
is no better evidence of refiuemeut and culture than a per- 
son's choice of toilet articles, and it is in this store that you 
can find an endless array of just such articles, a few of which 
we venture to mention here, such as delicate perfumes, odor 
bottles, boxes for jewels, photos, handkerchiefs, neckties, 
cuffs, collars, comb and brush sets, manicure sets, shaving 
sets, mirrors and celluloid novelties. Do not pass the line of 
combs, tooth, nail, hair, cloth and bath brushes: also leather 
goods, such as pocketbooks, wallets, card cases, ladies' chate- 
laines and wrist bags. There is no limit to the stationery, 
tablets, box paper, school books, gift books and miscellaneous 



books, and if there is anything new, just out, you are sure to 
find it at his store. 

In sporting goods there is no end, such as base balls, 
foot balls, tops, marbles, fishing tackle, card games, ham- 
mocks, croquet sets, etc. 

The wall paper stock is the largest in southern Illinois, 
comprising the choicest selections from the leading factories, 
and ranging from the lowest In price to the finest gilt, and 
are able to show good patterns all the year. 

Paint stock is given special attention. This branch 
of the business is acknowledged headquarters. Carry 
the Hherwiu-VV'illiams brand of mixed paint, made by the 
largest concern in the world. A complete stock of white lead, 
oils, varnishes, putty, window glass and paint brushes. 

In tlie large and growing business Mr. .Scliaper is ably 
assisted by his son, Kd, who is at present taking a course in 
a regular »'?'i'D£>L "f pharmacy anti will graduate in another 
year. 

Mr. Schaper was born near Hillsboro, Illinois, and 
received his education in bis native state. He was married 
May 10, 1884, to I.eora Culp, at Nokomis, and to this union 
has been born three boys. 

In public life he held the offlceof city clerk for ten years. 

Mr. Schaper is one of the oldest business men in the 
county, reliable and trustworthy, a gentleman not only in 
business lines, b«t socially ami otherwise. A man recog- 
nized for his generosity and kindness of heart. No poor 
or indigent person wanting medicine has ever been turned 
awav from his store. 




RESIDENCE OF ABE BOURQUIN. 



Phol.i li> Whittleief . 



42 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOQVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



»HE PROSPKHrrV OK NOKOMIS and her activity as 
a trading center is due to a larjre extent to the up-to- 
date firms who fill her business ranks, and whose methods 
of business are conducted upon modern and honorable prin- 
ciples, wliile the stock they carry and the prices at which 

they sell bear favorable com- 

O- rl. Paddock, parlson with many larger cities. 

Lumber Company. Honor in business always pays 

a fair dividend, and Nokorais 
business houses are conducted upon principles of unfiinching 
inlejrrity, and are advancing- daily in public favor and com- 
mand a liberal patronage throughout this section. 

One of the largest and most progressive institutions of 
Nokomis is the O. H. Paddock Lumber company. This 
business was first founded in 1876 by Mr. O. H. Paddock & 
Hon. Some seven or eight years later Mr. E. G. Greennian 



repairing, there is but one thing to do, write the O. H. Pad- 
dock Lumber company for quotations. And one order tilled 
invariably calls for a second, and that a third. 

Promptness, fair and honorable dealings, has brought to 
this firm a large and liberal patronage. In adilition to the 
high class material handled by them, one of the factors in 
their success has been promptness in execution. They are 
out for all the business they can get, by fair and honorable 
means; no other method used. The larger the order the 
better they like it. They are amply able to take care of any 
order that they may receive and they guarantee the same 
efflciency, high quality and promptness that have character- 
ized their work from the beginning. 

This company has a large branch yard atOhlman, where 
the same variety and quality are to be found, with Mr. 
Kellogg in charge. 



f 




O. H. PADDOCK LUMBER COMPANY. 



became a member. The firm name was then changed to 
Paddock, fireenman & Co. In 1893 .Mr. Greenman retired 
from tlie firm which was tlien reorganized and incorporated 
under tlie firm name of O. H. Paddock Lumber company. 

The Nokomis yards proper, including a numl)er of the 
most modern lumber sheds, witli large and cunnnodious 
offices on the corner of State and (.'edar streets, is l&O by 500 
feet, or 75,(KK) square feet. They carry as complete a line as 
any yard in southern Illinois. Dressetl and undressed lum- 
ber of all dimensions. Shingles and lath, manufactured 
work, doors, sash, l)linds, panels, stair and poich rail- 
ing, banisters, etc. Hair, lime and cement. Paints, oils 
and varnishes. Glass, single and double thickness, in all 
sizes. At prices just as low as the lowest. 

There is no more popular or better known firm in Mont- 
gomery county than O. H. Paddock l^umber company. 
Whenever a man in their territory contemplates building or 



They also own and conduct in Pana, Illinois, one of the 
largest and most up-to-date hardware and furniture bouses 
in soutliern Illinois. 

Mr. Robert T. I'addock, vice-president and manager of 
this firm, was born in Pana, Illinois, April '28, 1873. He 
received his primary education in the public schools of his 
state and graduated from the Pana high school in 1889; also 
from the Klackliurn university, of Carlinville, in 1895, and 
began business with his father, O. H. Paddock, president of 
the company that he now represents. 

He was married to Miss Helen Noterman, a highly 
accomplished and popular young lady of Hillsboro, Illinois, 
October 19, 1898. Their union has been blessed by two 
beautiful little girls. 

Mr. Paddock is a member of the Knglish I^utheran 
church and is a member of but one secret society, the 
K. of P. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



43 



TjF THKRK IS ONE THING more than auoHier on which 
^ the people of Nokomia priile tlieiiiselves it \s the fine 
horses, together with their excellent rigs, whicli may be 
seen arouiul any day. Witli the taste of the people of such 
a high staiiilartl, it has beeu necessary for the enterprising 

livery proprie- 

James C. Ward, tors to provide 

Livery, Feed and Sales Stable pa'ro"8 with 

turnouts that 
are not excelled in Montgomery county. A Arm that is 
doing much in this respect is that of James C. Ward. And 
consequently is doing a fast increasing business. This stable, 
though establishe<l some 3'ears, was acquired by him some 
three years ago and from the first has enjoyed a good patron- 
age. His premises comprise a modern livery with a floor 
space of 6000 square feet, and providing accommodations for 
one hundred head of stock. His stable is always full of 
boarders, which is a good recommendation. He carries 
almost every conceivable kind of rig; the majority of which 
are new and make very nobbj- turnouts. 

The stable is thoroughly equipped with everything re- 
liable. Horses boarded by the day, week or month. Here 
can be found first-class rigs, including cariages and drum- 
mers' outfits. 

Outfits furnished for funerals, weddings, picnic parties 
and social occasions of all kinds; in fact, rigs for all occa- 
sions at the lowest prices, and safe drivers furnished when 
required. This place must be visited to be appreciated and 
rigs tested to prove their superiority. It is a first-class stable 
anil Mr. Ward has proven himself competent to manage the 
best up-to-date and modern stable in this section of the 
state. 



Mr. Ward was born in Macoupin county, .lanuary 13, 
1869, and received his e<lucution in the i>ul)lic hcIiooI of 
ishipiiian, Illinois. He is a member of the ('Htliolic church 
and of the M. W. A. 

Before entering into his present vocation, Mr. Wanl was 
a successful farmer in Audubon. 

Mr Ward is a clever, accommodating and painstaking 
business man of practical experience and thoroughly compe- 
tent to look well to the interests of his patron!<. 

, MONO THE NUMEROUH highly respected and popular 
young men of Nokomis there are none who outranks 
the gentleman whose name forms the caption of this article. 
Mr. Charles L.Rogers was born in l.aporte, Iinliaiia, Sep- 
tember 2, 1884, came in early childhood with his parents to 

Nokomis and here receiveil his 
Charles L. Rogers, education. He is a consistent 

member of the English Luther- 
an church, a member of the .M. W. A , member and secretary 
of the Nokomis Gun club and charter member of the Alpine 
club. 

He is engaged in the coal business with hi» uncle, their 
office being on Front street, north of Spruce street. He has 
been engaged in tliis business for the past three years, anil 
has also, during the same period, successfully conducted a 
bicycle repair shop. 

He is also local agent for the St. Louis and ('liicago daily 
papers. In all these branches of trade he has proven him- 
self to be a successful business mati. He has liuilt up a 
newspaper trade far in advance of liis most able competitors. 




RESIDENCE OF ROBERT T. PADDOOK. 



Photo by Wlmtle»ey. 



44 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



He is a higlily respected member of his church, a very 
popular and hard workin? member for the good of all the 
orders to which he belongs. In fact there are few young 
men who have made, before attaining man's estate, such 




CHARLES L. ROGERS. 

remarkable progress. His gentlemanly bearing, his indus- 
try, his tnithl'ulness in all matters, his upright dealings 
with his fellowman will always make liim friends wlierever 
he may be. 

We are sorry that we are unable tr) note liis marriage 
and the many little blessings brought thereby — as is usual 
in a biograpliical sketch of this kind— but it seems that none 
of the ffentler sex, so far, has lieen able lo capture him. 

Although his residence upon this mundane sphere has 
not been of sufficient length of time to give him a vote never- 
theless he has political convictions. He is an enthusiastic 
republican and a hani worker in behalf of his parly's 
interest. 

|AII>R0AD 8KRVICK in any capacity Is arduous and 
trying on the nerves, and for this reason there are 
fewer old men, it matters not whether it be that of section 
hand or president of a road, engaged in railroading than any 
other line of business. 8ome positions are more difficult and 

exacting than others. Kut the 

J3COD rfx. t5flStOn, or<linary poHition of telegraph 

TelejrraDhv. operator requires about as 

much strenuousness to fill suc- 
cessfully as any within our knowledge. Yet it is one most 
eagerly sought after by the rising generation; but who can 
wonder at the young man or woman seeking such a position? 
'I'hey become fascinated with this mysterious little instru- 
ment with its constant and apparently meaningless clicks, 
i\iid gaxn with admiration upon the operator who reads with 
HHse the ticks of the sounder and then begins to manipulate 
Ills key witli an air of carelessness ami superiority, (^o it is 



not strange that when our young friend, Mr. Jacob M. 
Baston, began to look around for a life avocation tliat be 
should seek telegraphy: he desired to become a railroad 
operator, for the many advantages it would offer as a step- 
ping stone for some- 
t h i ng better. He 
soon acquired a thor- 
ough knowledge of 
telegraphy and had 
no trouble in secur- 
ing a position. It is 
true that the salary 
was something less 
than of t he president 
of the road which he 
represented . but not- 
withstanding this 
little discrepancy in 
salary, he was dilli- 
gent, painstaking, 
accurate and stu<li- 
ous. 80, after two 
years of arduous 
duty he has not only 
masterei) telegra- 
phy, but has acquir- 
e<l a general knowl- 
ed g e of railroad 
w o r k, especially 
office work. He is 
perfectly familiar 
and compelent to 
perform all the du- 
ties of a local agent, 
or to satisfactorily 
fill a clerical posi- 
tion in any of the 
general offices. 

Mr. Kaston was 
born in Huey, Illi- 
nois, August 16, 1881, JACOB M. BASTON. 
and received his education in this state. He is a consistent 
an<l valueil member of the .Methodist church, also a member 
of the M. W. A. 

Mr. Kaston is a young man highly esteemed by the 
business men of Nokomis. Hocially, he is a favorite with all 
and is recognized as a mo<lel j-oung man. He is highly ap- 
preciated by his superiors for his reliability and trustwor- 
tliiuesa. 



pjlNE OF THE MOST POPULAR RESORTS for those 
»af who frequent refreshment parlors is the saloon of Mr. 
O. Krakenhoff, located two doors east of the Nokomis bank. 
You will find this gentleman far above the average man in 
like calling. His place is conducted in the most business 
i_ £• like and respectable man- 

O. BrakCnnOTT, ner— a place of quiet, re- 

Refreshment Parlors. tlremeut and safety, a 

place where only first- 
class goods are sold, a place where poisonous decoctions are 
neither sold nor given away, a place without fighting 
wliiskey, a place that caters only to the best trade, a place 
where the bar, bar fixtures, beer pump and ice chest are of 
the most modern make. So it is not astonishing that he has 
by far the largest percentage of the best trade. He carries a 
large stock of both foreign and domestic wines, both sour 




THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUV^ENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



45 



and sweet. His liquors— bourbon, rye, brandies, pin and 
keuiuuiel — all of the highest grrades and most popular 
brands. 




OLTMANN BRAKENHOFF. 

His ciofars, domestic and imported, are considered Die 
heig^ht of perfection, and his place considered headquarters 
for smokers. Onl.v the choicest brands are kept in stock. 

When in the city don't forget to call on Mr. Urakeuhoff. 

i!^CTAVE THAXET S.^YS: "What would America be 
»af without brag?" but witli greater truth il can he ^aid 
"What would America be without the press," anil more es- 
pecially the country press; for is it not in a largo measure 
through their efforts that this vast productive < o intry has 

been peopled. If the press 
W. P. Hagthrop, are not the builders are 

Editor and Publisher, """y ""' '^e promoters? 

Has it not been through 
the efforts of the press that the vast domain of the West was 
looked upon as no better than a great desert and which now 
blossoms as the rose. 

But we will leave the field for a few minutes as we de- 
sire to refer more particular to the gentleman whose name 
you have reail at the head of this article. W. P, Hagthrop, 
while not an old man in years, is oM iu newspaper work. 
He is eilitor and proprietor of the Nokomis Progress, pub- 
lished in tills city. 

The plant wliile not e.xtensive, yet it is a well fitted 
up country printing' office, having a l^'amphell cylinder 
press, upon wliicli four five-column pages are priided at 
o:ice, an 8x12 Gordon job press, one 16-inch paper cutler, five 
good fonts of large wood type for poster work, over eighty 
fonts of a<lvertising and job type, and about 300 poumls of 
body type wilb sorts. With paper stock for all kinds of 
commercial and job work, a large number of stock cuts. 



Mr. Hag^tbrop started as an apprentice on tlie Santa 
Ana, (t'al .) Daily Klade in 188(5, l lien be went with the 
Hania Anu Weekly Standard for two years. He tlien went 
to Han KraiM-isco where he was with the Bani-roft History 
company and the Wasp Krom 181)1 lo 189.3 he was with I ho 
Sau Kernanlino, (t.'al.,) Daily Couiier. In the spring of 
18'>3 he came east and in 181*4 worked in the difFerent otilces 
in Litchfield. III., for about a year In lHi),5 be leased the 
(ireenfiHid Klade, which proved a total taihire financially. 
On February 19, 1897, he purchased the Nokomis Progress 
plant from K. M. Itolt, of Kamsey, III., and a month later 
took into partnership K. (.'. Buck, of liitchtield, who added 
a first-class joldiing plant. Later on tlify adderl a cyliinler 
press as well as a quantity of new typeand other material. 
In March, 1902. Mr. Hagthrop purchased his partner's iider- 
est and has since comlncteil the liiisiness in his own interest. 
The paper is independent Demncralic in politics. When 
Mr. Hagthrop first I onk charge of the Progres.-' its general 
aft'.iirs were ill very poor conilitinii but by fair and iiiipar- 
tial treatment of his patrons, good work and Imsiness iiiftli- 
ods, he has put it on a good paying luisis, \\ hilt- each year 
adds new business and new frieinis. 

It is now eight and one-half > ears since lit* started in 
business for himself, si.x and one-half years of that lime has 
lieen put in at Nokomis, wliere he appears to li:ive made few 
enemies and a hi)"t of friends. 

William P. Hagthrop was liorn In .'^an Kraiicisco, Cali- 
fornia, .\ pril 20 1869, and educated in his native state. He 
was married in Indianapolis, IndiaiiH. .lime 6. 1899. to .Miss 
Haltie .M . Morse, ol Santa. Ana, (alifoniia. I'hey :ire now 
blessed with three lovely little cliililren, t"o sons and one 




W. P. HAGTHROP. 



daughter. Mr. Hagthrop is a memlier of the Presbyterian 
church, also a member of the I. (). (>. I'., K. of P., I.', of H., 
M. P. L., and M. A. K. O. 



46 



THE XOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




M", 



HARRY C MILLER, A. B. 

RRY CRAWl'^ORD MILf.ER was born in VVpstern. 

port, Md , A|.'il 29. 1870. The first ten years of lii.s 
li e were spent tn We ternport and in Key.ser, West Vir- 
ginia. In 1880 he movetl, with his parents, to Effiiif^ham, 
(•c.iinty. iM . whei-c he lived for several years on a small 

Harry C. Miller, ^'•"''^- '^''■- ^''H'''''^ parents 

c? y-t- f c U t finaly moved from the farm to 

Sup t OT ScnOOlS. the city of Effingham in o;-der 
tn oive the r cliildien be'ter school advantafjes; and in 1889 
Mr. Miller ui'aduaied from the Effin!;ham high schiol, iis 
valedictorian of his class The following winter he luught 
a district school, and in the fall of 1890 he entered St Jos- 
eph college at Teuloixilis, Illinois. He afterwards entered 
Ausiin college, from which institution he graduated in 1893. 
Within a few weelcs after graduating from college Mr. Mil- 
ler was elected Principal of the Effingham high school. 
[le was reelected to this position, but before the time for 
accev ting, he was offered the superintendency of the K'n- 
mundy, (III.) schools, a much bettei' position, which he ac 
cep'ed. Mr. Miller served the good people of Kinmundy 
as superintendent of their .schools for three years, and was 
unanimously offered the place for- another year; but he had 
planned to spend this year in college, consequently he did 
not remain the fourth year. While Mr. Miller was at the 
head of tlie Kinmundy schools he was married to Miss F'lor- 
ence. daughter of Hon J. P. Condo, of Moccasin, 111 Three 
little daughter-shave come to the home ot Mr and Mrs. Mil- 
ler, all of whom are living: AUa, Agnes and Vinita. After 
taking further work in college already mentioned, Mr. 
Miller became Principal of- the Shelbyville, (111.,) high 
school. From this place he came to Nokomis as superin- 
tendent of schools, and he is now entering upon his fourth 
year. He has had considerable experience as an institute 
instructor, and holds a high grade of both the five year and 
ihelife state certificates. He is a member of the post- 



Edward W. Lehman, 
Grocer. 



graduate school of the University of Illinois, and has done 
nearly all the work required for the master's degree. 

Mr. .Miller is a member of the Methodist church, and 
belongs to the .M. W. A., Nokomis Lodge No. 456, A. F. & 
A. M., and also to Pana Chapter R. A. M. 

^HERE ARE in all avenues of trade some business 
which bears the stamp of the enterprise of the man- 
agement, and which thi'ough a period of success attains 
meritorious celebrity that identifies them so closely that to 
hear the mention of the one is to hear the echo of its fel- 
low. Not that a firm's en- 
terprise alone makes a rep- 
utation, but it helps to 
draw attention to the general excellence of their stock. 

The trading public are ever ready to encourage enter- 
prise and to lend support to the man who will cater for 
them for trade in a sati^factory manner by providing stan- 
diii'd g'lods and selling them at the most reasonable prices. 
This In the p ilicy pursued by Mr. Edward Lehman. 

By the means of a fresh stock of staple and faucj' gro- 
ceries ol standard brands, low prices, and prompt_and cour- 
teous attention he has succeeded in attracting a most flat- 
tering trade. Everything in the store has been selected 
with a careful regard for quality and puritv. The utmost 
courtesy is shown everybody at this establishment, and the 
variety of goods is so great that the most fastidious can 
sure be suited, and at a reasonable price. Prompt delivery 
is one of the train features of this business. It ever aims 
to suit and that it has done so is eloquently proven by the 
number of their customers. Nobody ever leaves the store 
disappointed. You get your money's worth, full weight, 
full measure and goods as represented. 

The proprietor of this establishment, Mr. Edward W. 




EDWARD W. LEHIVIAN. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVEXIR SUPPLEMENT. 



Tjohman, was born at Altamont, Tlliiiois. on April 24, 
1877, and received his education in his native stale. He 
was mai-ried lo Miss Pauline L. Tschiche, November 2, 
1897, at Ohiinan, Illinois. To this union have been born 
two children, one boy -and one {;irl. Mr. Lehman is an 
active member of the German ciiurcli, and the Couit of 
Honor. Air. Lehman has proven himself to bean exem- 
plary business man and citizen, strictly honest, a man who 
does not fear or hesitate to do what he believes is riijht, 
kind and tfenerou.s hearted, and looks well to the comfort of 
those around him. As a business man he is liberal. pul)lic 
.spirited and successful. These commendable traits of char- 
acter permit him to count his friends by the legion. 

JHE WORLD ADVANCES and times change. The 

new century looks back on the old and is pleased 

with the improvement, but ihe future offi'rs still jJivater 

chaujies. There are a f^reat many business men who watch 

the product of the world and by (ifferinf; the best to iheii- 

Alfred D. Kerr, customers, are enabled 

^ ji 'o tlo their proportion 

Harness and Saddlery. ,■ ^, , , ,, ^ improvement 

education and upbuilding; of their community. Sucli men 
find il a pleasure and an easy matter to keep to the front 
of this great march of projjress Among this class we are 
pleased to mention Mr. Alfred D. Kerr, saddle and har- 
ness manufacturer of this city. He has made this a life 
business; for more than twenlytwo years he has devoted 
every week, every day, except the Sabbath, to this particu- 
lar branch of business. He has always borne tiie reputa- 
tion of carrying the largest and most complete stock of 
saddles, harness and horseman's equipment ever carried in 
Nokomis. Double or single harness, he has them, from the 
most plain farm to the handscimesl and most elegant buggy 





ALFRED D. KERR. 



MAJ. D. B. CASTEEL. THE NEW EDlTOn 

and carriage harness. Saddles, no end of them, any style. 
Bridles, fifty styles to select from; (ollais by the hundreds 
for horses or mules; harness, by the wayon load as to har- 
ness; axle grease, etc , every brand and an abundance of il. 
Ladies side saddles a specialty, hoise blankets, laprobes of 
the finest material, tine buggy rugs and rubrjer blankets, 
collar pads, fly nets, etc. It is not necessary, neither does 
space admit of our further advertising this stock Suffice 
it 10 say that all you want is here. He keeps u coinpetent 
corps of men lo fill orders and make repairs all of which is 
done without delay or loss of time to the farmer. The 
building which Mr. Kerr occupies is his property, he uses 
the (list floor for his store, while the second f1i)Or is used by 
the Nokomis Progress office. 

Mr. Kerr was born in Hamiltnn. Ohio, Septemlier 27, 
1851. Came with his parents when a child to Illinois and 
was here educated He married Miss Lucinda Sides, of 
this city in 1873. They have three children, two sons and 
one daughter. The eldest son, Charles H.is secreiary of 
the Spannagel Hardware and Furniture Company. George 
is in the employ of the American Express Company at Chi- 
cago, where he has been the past eleven years. Mr. Al- 
fred Ki'ir is one of the old aldermen of the city, he was on 
the council in I8H4, when the'water and electric light bills 
as ordinances were passed, ^h: Kerr is one of the promi- 
nent and stalwart Republican^ of Montgomery county, yet 
that does not effect in the le'ast his standing among the 
Democrats, as a citizen and merchant, his outsjxiken fealty 
to his party really makes him business, llenth manly and 
polite to all with whom he come? in coniaet. stricilv honor- 



48 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



a'>l ■ ami tr-utlifiil in all hiisiiiess traii'^actions, n?ukes him 
alaiir.'d and ivspecied by all who kiKJvv liim. 




Gorge Noterman, 



GEORGE NOTERMAN. 

IS UEORGIE MOr.CR^IAN was born in Hillsboro, II 

Miois. June 30, 1877. ani eiluuaicd in f.his state. He 

is a jjf.ulnate of the Hillsboro liiijh .^ch > il and of the col 

lei;es h -i-ein after mentioned He was maiTied to Miss 

.Myrtle Rrown. a lieautiful and aceinnpli^hed yount.' lady 

o f Hillsbor-o. Illinois, 

January 28, 1903 He 
A Leading Jeweler and Optician. |^ ,j,p y,,,, ,,(• ;i,. ),■>,.,,,]_ 

ericli Noi,ei-ni m, of llills'i iro, Illin lis. who emigrated from 

Maynce, G 'ruia'U', in 1835, ti'-st I ic itiUi; al (Jarlinville, 

Ilniois. in ihe -iinti year; aflerw i ds m ivinir lo 

HiUsboro, where h ■ establislie 1 hi^ p -ese I liu<i 

nes<, ihat of ji'w. It and wa'clnnaio'r in 1857. 

and it. was liiere'hatihe subj>'ct of our skelch 

was born. The faiiier is no doubt the ionier 

j-'welei' of southern Illinis Our subj. ct hef;iin 

his api.irentiee>irp under his father al Ihe afje of 

eleven years Mr Noterman is successor to Ihe 

oldest j'welry, wal(^h repairinir and opiical 

h luse in the city which was established Ihirly 

four years ag" by Mr. Oeortfe Sippell wlio snld 

the business lo .Mr. Noterman, who carries a 

larije slock of watclies of superior make, anion}.' 

these are the Elyin, Walthain, Hampden and 

others. In il'Ad tilled cases he lias the Boss. 

Crescent, Dueber, Wa,dsworth and ("mwii 

Evefvone needs and sliould have a waich. and 

as 11 K'f' we know of no more useful imr a more 

constant reminder of the donor than a jrood 

watch. As to clocks, he can show you as nice 

a line of ebonized parlor and alarm clocks as can 

he found in the county. A larye and compleie 

■lock of "old riiiffs, all of which was boiii;ht of 



the leadintr mancfacturers of America. These rings 
are all bought and sold by weight so you get ex- 
actly what you pay tor. His set rings are made 
by equally as reliable houses and set with all the pop- 
ular stones. In sierling silver such as tea spoons, coffee 
spoons and brushes, in plated goods you will find every- 
thing in knives, forks and spoons of the 1847Rogers Broth- 
ers', also the best triple plated and solid silver goods in all 
the popular and fancy prices. For richness and elegance 
there is nothing superior to his stock in this section. 

.Mr. Noterman is an excellent watch repairer and prac- 
tical jeweler. Long years of experience has given him the 
deftness and delicacy of touch peculiar and necessary to 
members of the craft. He does not experiment with a 
watch, he can diagnose what is the mailer with it just as 
rapidly as a skilled physician can differentiate a certain 
type of fever. The class of work that he does is equal in 
every respect to that turned out by the highest priced jew- 
eler .Many of oui- people who used to go to the city for 
jewelry now sive themselves the expense and trouble for 
ihey find what ihey want at Mr. Noterman's, or if not in 
stock it can be obtained on short notice. Courteous treat- 
ment has been one of the elements coniributing to his suc- 
cess. He has made hosts of friends by his constant efforts 
to please his pati-oiis, and he bids fair te still farther en- 
large liis clientage. He is also an engi'aver of considerable 
skill, having attended the Bradley Pt)lytechnic School of 
Peoria and afterwards working in Pekin, Illinois, the noted 
engraver, Henry Zuckwiller, being his preceptor. Like all 
good jewelers of now a days .Mr. Noterman is an expert op- 
tician, b 'ing a graduate of the Norihern Illinois College of 
Opthalmology and Otology class 1901 He tests your eyes 
free of charge, and is prepar<'d and competent to properly 
fit you with glasses after you are examined. .Mr. George 
Nolerinan is well known to every individual in Nokomis 
and vi'jinity for his correct and honest method of doing 
business, foi- his social and genial disposition. He is pro- 
gressive and pablic spirited and knows ihe value of prin 



i 


\ 


^ 



THE GERMAN IVIETHODIST CHURCH AS REMODELED. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 



^VERY COMMUNITY has amont; its citizens a few 
•—J men of reeoijnizecl influence and ability, who by their 
systematic and thorough meiliod of worl< attain to a suc- 
cess which is justly deserved. That a lifeiiHic in tlie pur" 
suit of one's callinji will result in subhtunlial success, •'■es 
William N. Grimes, ^'^'''''^b' if perseverance and 
c* I t> ^ eiieryy are applied, is found 

i>tock Breeder. ^^^ (^^ ^^^^^ j,, ^1,^ ^..^^^. „|- ,vi,-. 

William N. Grimes, who from childhood has yiven the (kt- 
eupation of aojriculture and si(X'k raisinif the principal put 
of his attention. He is now a resident of Roseniond town- 
ship. Christian county, where he was born and reared a 
thoroui^h faimer and one of the most scientific stock-raisers 
of thoroughbred Herefords and graded cattle, and hog breed- 
ers of central Illinois. 

Barely, if ever, is a breeding cslablislunent. tounded 
along the line pursued by Williuni N Grimes, of Ohlman, 
Illinois. In selecting breeding stock for- liis herd of Here- 
fords from the very outset and in the initial purchase for 
the herd, quality was the first cnnsideratiun, so that when 
the animal was found that met his requirements as to sire 
or breeding matron should be. it was simply bought regard- 
less of cost. Mr. Grimes has purchased more high priced 
Herefords than any other man in his ne'gbnrliood the last 
year. Mr. Grimes tully realizing the importance of exhib- 
itions of live stock at the leading shows, it is the inteiiiion 
of the proprietor of Maplewood to exhibit a herd at most of 
the county fairs this year. The herd will make a strong 
showing and good enough to win .Maplewood a good share 
of ribbons. It will be headed by Columbus, sired by the 
great Beau Donald 3rd and his dam, a full sister to the 
mighty Dale, the greatest show and breeding bull in the 
world. Columbus is much like his half brother. Disturber, 




WILLIAM N. GRIMES. 

which was the champion bull calf in..Mr Adam's show herd 
last season. There is little to criticise in the make-up of 
this promising bull. His head and horns are good, his front 
well nigh sensational, of low blocky type, well padded back 




MAPLEWOOD FARM, RESIDENCE OF WM. N. GRIMES NORTHEAST OF NOKOMIS. 



I hutu by \S hiuliiity. 



50 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




ORPHEUS 2D REGISTER NO. 106903. 

and depth of fliink, all indicatiiii; that he will grow into 
something thai will in linne De hard to get around. This 
was considered iiy J. C. Adams, of Woodland Farm, as the 
choice bull of hus ijerd and was purchased by Mr. Grimes 
for $1500. .Vlr Adams would have e.xhibited this bull at 
the state fairs had he not have been sold to Mr. Grimes. 
Victress, an extra good aged cow, will be found in this herd. 
She i> a daughter of the $10,000 Dale and will make a good 
showing this season The following is the kind, with their 
P'digreeof stock to be found on Mapiewood Farm : 

1. 



3. Joan 

Sire 
Dam 

5. Adelaide 
Sire 
Dam 

.Mr. Grimes 
Herefords of Mr. 



6. 



Conr.MBUs 


(Bull) 


No. 


143783 


Sire 


Beau Donald 3d 


•' 


86140 


Dam 


Columbia 2d 


14 


86594 


Orpheus 2d 


(Bull) 


li 


105203 


Sire 


Orpheus 


i I 


71100 


Dam 


Luminous 


11 


76027 


LU.MINOUS 


(Cow) 


a 


76027 


Sire 


Post Orbit 


u 


75080 


Dam 


Lustre 


11 


76842 


VlVI.VN 


(Cow) 


li 


149475 


Sire 


Wallace 


t ( 


119244 


Dam 


Victress 


** 


102634 


Victress 


(Cow) 


i( 


1026:W 


Sire 


Dale 


1. 


66481 


Dam 


Bethel 


a 


66287 


NORDICA 


(Cow) 


11 


140213 


Sire E 


ill of Homestead 2d 


(t 


93063 


Dam 


Lady Belle 


• ( 


69280 


Julia 


(Cow) 


{( 


79484 


Sire 


Granger 


11 


59032 


Dam 


Fairy 


11 


54514 



(Cow) " 132712 

Duncan " 77682 

Florence " 35736 

(Cow) " 83024 

Columbus " 44570 

Poppy A '• 57922 

attended the big sale of thoroughbred 
George H. Adams, at Linwood, Kansas, 
July 28 and 29. 1903. The Breeder's Gazette in reporting 
this big sale says that among the liberal buyers of top cat- 
tle was W. N. Grimes, of Ohiman, Illinois. He secured 
the imported cow. Luminous, by Post Orbit, which was 
the highest priced cow sold at that sale, also her son, Or- 
pheus 2d. Luminous was selected in England by John 
Stewart for C. S.Cross, as the very best Hereford yearling 
heifer in Britain, having taken the premium at the Royal 
Exhibition of England the same year. She won first prize 
at Kansas City Royal in her yearling form. Thus Mr. 
Stewart's good opinion of her has been borne out. 

Mr. Grimes has Ihoroughbred Hereford for sale at all 
times. Visitors given a cordial welcome, Correspondence 
solicited. 

Mr. Grimes was born in Christian county, near Ohi- 
man, Illinois, on the old homestead, where he now resides, 
December 12, 1872. Educated in the common schools of his 
native state. Married Miss Rosa L. Mateer, of Rosemond 
township, December 5, 1901. Born November 23d, 1875, 
within sight of Manlewood Farm, she being the youngest 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Mateer. Miss Mateer 
alter finishing her education taught school until her moth- 
er's health failed, when it became necessary for her to re- 
turn home, where she resided with her parents until her 
marriage to Mr. Grimes. She was and is now the model 
lady of the community, kind, gentle and charitable to all. 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 




LUMINOUS, REQI 

Mr. Grimes is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, also of the A. F. & A. M. and the K. of P. 

Mr. Grimes owns the old homestead which consists of 
three hundred and> sixty acres of Illinois' most rich and pro- 
ductive soil, also three hundred and sixty acres near the 
old homestead place equally as fertile. It is known through 
Central Illinois as Maplewood Farm, deriving its name 
from the numerous giant maples with their wide spreading 
boughs, which adorn one of the most beautiful and well- 
kept lawns in this part of the state. While setting well 
back from one of the main thoroughfares of the county, it 



STEREO NO. 76027. 

is a beautiful, old style, two-story frame building, well- 
kept, always looking in good condition, one of the happiest 
homes in the stale. 

He is one of the prominent men of the county, and 
in every walk of life has conducted himself with honor and 
renown. His business is highly remunerative and he en- 
joys the enviable reputation of a neighbor and friend of a 
farmer and stock raiser far above the average. 

Scrupulously accurate in every statement and in every 
action or position, governed by the nicest sense of gentle- 
manly honor. Such is Mr. William N. Grimes. 




SEVEN AMONG THE CHOICE HEREFORD8 OF THE MAPLEWOOD FARM. 
Beadingfromleft to right;-' I. Columbus (143783). 2. Victrces i IU'>ti.'i4). 3. .luaii il:i:;i'.!). 4. .lulia (79164) 

6. NordicB (140213). 7. Vlviao (I4!>4;.'<). 



Adc-lalili' (f!l024) 



THE NOKOMIS PROGRESS SOUVENIR SUPPLEMENT. 





f^^^^^ wv 





A Pioneer Citizen. 



E. 8. EA8TERDAY. 

MS. EASTERPAY was born in New Somerset. Ohio, 
'■' and wl'i'ii a youiij; man came to Illinois with his 
]) iiMils. and skilled on a farm near Nokomis. He was 
mariied to Mii-s Sarah E P.yle, who died a few years ago. 
They [lad five children, Edijar, Jessie, Waller. Mabel and 

Karl. Jessie died when a 
young woman. Walter mar- 
ru'd Vli>s Lulu Graden, and the otiiprs are still at home. 
In i-eligion he is a Protestant, in poliiics a Prohibition, by 
<iccu|)at ion a carpenter. The residences of A. J. Williford, 
Fred fjaw. (i H. Sisannaael, W. H Shannon and H. H. 
Wi'olston are some of the houses built by hin? and his son. 
He lives at the souih end of Maple street, whei-e he has a 
sinr.ll gi-eenhouse for the purpos > of growing early vegeta 
ble plants, for which lie has a large and increasing demand. 

E. W. TOOLEY &C0. 

DEALERS !N 



All Up-to-Date 
Hifch-class Goods 
At Low Prices. 



GROCERIES ALWAYS FRESH. 



FRANK YACKLE, 

'I'he Only Exclusive r^hoe Dealer iu 
Nokomis. He carries a Full Line of 



Ladies' 
Gent's 
and 
Ch i 1 d r e n's 



Shoes. 

Repair Work of all Kinds 

.... Done Neatly and Promptly .... 

Spruce Street, 3 Doors South of Bank. 

FRED LAW &SON, 

DEALERS IN 

Buggies, Surreys .*. 
.'. and Road Wagons. 

MAKIVES!!*, SAr>r>LES, 
COLLAKS, WHIPS. 

General Repairing 

Neatly and Promptly Executed. 



EVERETT, HARyARD a 

PIftNOS 

On Easy Payments 



A. T 




Countrv Produce Solicited. 



S. M. STRAIN^S. 

FOR GOOD GOODS 

.-. ALWAYS GO TO .-. 



.y.D.Tafl»i''sSlm 



They Ueep the C K L E B R A T E D ALL-WOOL 
JAMESTOWN DRESS GOODS that are famous 
all over the world for their many Good Qualities. 
Full Line of Dry Goods, Millinery and Shoes Al- 
ways on Hand. ::::::: 

^^Opposite the Nokomis National Bank. 



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